READERS of the Advertiser have rallied round Helensburgh's launderette following the news last week concerning fears for its future.

As we reported last week, Argyll and Bute Council granted for a new hot food takeaway next door to the firm's home in East Clyde Street.

The owners of the launderette said in a submission to the authority as part of the planning process that they may be forced to stop trading at their premises due to the smells which would come from the takeaway.

And Helensburgh residents, along with those in further-flung parts, responded in their favour on the Advertiser's Facebook page.

Claire McGonagle said: "We would be devastated if the launderette closed. We need another takeaway - why? We only have one launderette and 10 plus takeaways already."

Moira Campbell posted: "This seems very unfair. The town only has one launderette which provides a much-needed service to many."

And Kate Jarvis said: "That's awful. A launderette is a key facility for any community and to push one out for another unneeded takeaway is brutally short sighted."

In response to concerns expressed about the takeaway, council planning officer Stephanie Spreng claimed that environmental health officers were satisfied that smells from the takeaway would not have an adverse impact on the launderette.

Martin Harper from Helensburgh Launderette and Dry Cleaners told the Advertiser: "After our recent shock and disbelief at the permission being granted for a takeaway next door to the only launderette and dry cleaners in town, we are to say the least disappointed and downhearted about this situation.

"We would like to assure all of our customers old and new that we will explore every avenue possible to make sense of this horrendous decision.

"We have been overwhelmed by the kind words and support of the people of Helensburgh, the community spirit is most definitely alive and well.

"Thank you everyone for taking the time to express your opinion on this matter."