CLYDEBANK’S top citizen is making a bold bid to tackle loneliness in the town – and he needs your help.

Jim McLaren, who was named Citizen of the Year in August for his work running the Golden Friendships Club, is planning new monthly gigs for Bankies to bring elderly relatives, neighbours or friends along.

Instead of donating money, he wants residents to offer a couple hours of their time and help combat loneliness in a plan he has dubbed “grab a granny”.

Jim told the Post: “How many people are sitting alone in their houses? There’s a lot of people who come here and say it’s changed their lives.

“I’m learning a lot about how many people are lonely and don’t have many people in their lives.

“I think there’s a lot of people who want to help them but don’t know how.”

The club’s existing sessions, held at the 543 Club in Dalmuir, are already so busy that Jim is pitching the new events to start in January 2019, but he hopes residents will start bringing their older neighbours and friends in the coming months.

There are already up to 500 residents a week attending all Golden Friendships’ activities.

Jim added: “The people of Clydebank have been amazing and they don’t stop giving.

“I thoroughly enjoy it - I’ve never done anything so worthwhile in my life.”

The town’s politicians were quick to praise the idea as governments increasingly face up to the challenge of an ageing population and social isolation.

MSP Gil Paterson said: “This is a fantastic idea from our Citizen of the Year.

“Everyone has had a grandparent at some point in their lives and tales of their experiences throughout their lives are fascinating.

“It’s sad that so many of our older residents, who have so much to offer, feel lonely and isolated but this is great way to tackle that problem.

“I wish Jim great success with this ‘grab a granny’ venture and would urge everyone to support it enthusiastically – and don’t forget the granddads.”

The Scottish Government launched a consultation earlier this year on their social isolation strategy, seeking comments from Scots and the many groups who work to combat the problem.

MP Martin Docherty-Hughes added: “The dedication of Jim and the team at Golden Friendships never fails to inspire and I’m delighted that the club continues to go from strength to strength.

“Loneliness can be a real problem in our communities, especially amongst older people. Voluntary groups like Golden Friendships are incredibly important in helping to tackle social isolation and I look forward to the benefits Jim’s latest project will bring to Clydebank.”