A HELENSBURGH football club is giving back to the community this Christmas after a donations appeal for the local food bank.

Ardencaple FC issued a plea to supporters at the end of November for items of food and toiletries to be handed in and a successful collection night was held on Tuesday at Hermitage Academy.

More than ? items were gathered, and club chairman Craig Holborn said he was proud his team could play a part in helping those in need.

He told the Advertiser: "As a Platinum Status club, accredited under the SFA’s Quality Mark Scheme, we are constantly seeking ways in which we can further embrace our community, not just in terms of providing football coaching to our boys and girls but more-so how we can deliver real benefit to those in need within the Burgh.

"Quite simply, Ardencaple Football Club could not function without the tremendous support that we receive all-year-round from our sponsors, typically businesses committed to supporting their local community.

"Clearly, running a big community football club requires lots of funds and, whilst every penny must be considered a prisoner, we never lose sight of other worthy causes.

"In the past we have endeavoured to support CHAS, breast and lung cancer initiatives as well as research into brain tumours, and we shall continue to do so.

"However, as the old saying goes: 'Charity begins at home,' so as we approach this festive period we must recognise that through no fault of their own this time of year presents a real challenge to some of our friends and neighbours who sadly might struggle to enjoy basics such as food and drink.

"With that in mind, Ardencaple FC has organised its very first food drive in support of the local food bank organised by the Red Cross.

"In a small way this will repay the wonderful support that our Burgh has given us over the past 50 years by giving something back to those who really need it."