The next chapter in the history of the Beacon Trust has begun as the charity offically opened its new shop in Helensburgh at the weekend.

The charity, which picks up unwanted furniture and delivers it to those in need throughout the Helensburgh area, had to close its old premises on Stuckleckie Road after 25 years when Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) who owned the property needed it for offices.

But after a long search the trust found a suitable home at 19c Princes Street, close to the centre of town, which it hopes will draw a greater number of visitors.

Although the charity is happy with its new premises, it will have to earn money to cover the cost of renting the new shop, which it didn't have to do when it was in Kirkmichael, where the premises were on loan free from ACHA. But bosses are optimistic they can achieve a good income.

Trevor McGrath, Chairman of The Beacon Trust, said: "It was with sadness and regret we had to leave our previous premises in Kirkmichael after a 25 year association with the community there.

"I would like to thank everyone who attended the relocation of The Beacon Trust to 19 Princes Street. I would also like to thank Michael Curly, proprietor of the Buffet shop in Colquhoun for generously donating a buffet lunch for our guests. Also the Rev Jim Brown, former minister of Park Church who re-dedicated the new shop. Along with the late Councillor Reay he opened the old shop all those years ago." The new shop which is just along from Helensburgh Central station and beside Speedy Hire still has the same contact number 01436 674077.