A new movement has launched to get seafront shops in Helensburgh to open their doors on Thursday evenings.

Karlyn Marshall, owner of the Front Room Gallery and Helensburgh Art Hub said her "West End Wander" idea would get more shoppers to enjoy the diverse and unique shops of West Clyde Street.

Ms Marshall said she had spoken to customers at the gallery and found both residents and visitors would welcome the chance to shop on their way home from work or while out for an evening walk.

A number of retailers have already signed up to join the gallery including The Christmas Shoppe, The Toy Shop, the Lomond clinic, Shooftie, Buttercup Moon, Tweedie and Helensburgh Cycles.

The shops will be open until 8pm on Thursdays and put "sparkly trees" outside their doors to create a picturesque and "magical" view down the street.

Ms Marshall said: "I am so pleased to work alongside our local neighbourhood retailers and am looking forward to welcoming customers on a Thursday evening.

"Please support local businesses, shop local and enjoy what Helensburgh's West End has to offer."

Amy from Buttercup Moon added: "I'm so excited to be moving onto West Clyde Street and being involved in the West End Wander."

And Jill from the Lomond Clinic said: "We have an amazing array of local businesses along the Helensburgh seafront. We are part of a supportive community and would love for you to come to see what we have on offer. Late opening on a Thursday, follow the trail of trees and lights."

Last week saw the first Thursday evening opening and Val, at The Toy Shop, said: "Thoroughly enjoyed seeing folk wandering along the seafront on their evening walks. Everyone was so pleased to see shops open in the evening. It was a lovely atmosphere."

Helensburgh Chamber of Commerce welcomed the initiative. Vivien Dance said: “Congratulations Karlyn and all the seafront retailers for this local initiative, I am sure everyone joins with me in wishing you every success and increased trading from this collective initiative.

“I hope everyone will take the opportunity to have a wander along the seafront on Thursdays, known now as West End Wander and give our independent traders support and much needed additional revenue from their extra hours and enticing displays.

“We are constantly reminded of the pressures on local businesses with increased costs outside their control and we can all continue to play our part in supporting the local economy and ensuring the continued viability of our local retailers.

“I hope to see you all taking the Thursday West End Wander throughout the summer, and good luck to every single one of the participants.”