The founder of Clydebank-based charity Golden Friendships has promised to bring Christmas cheer to disadvantaged Bankies.

The Dalmuir hub supports pensioners, people with disabilities, vulnerable families and isolated individuals.

Due to the pandemic, members have suffered from increased isolation, loneliness, food poverty and lack of one-to-one support.

With local lockdowns now introduced across Scotland and tighter local restrictions, Golden Friendships are keen to ensure no one is alone or suffering during the Christmas period.

Jim McLaren told the Post: “Golden Friendships are making Christmas happen.

“We are aiming to give 500 pensioners and our friends with additional support needs something to look forward to.

“We would like to get them out for an afternoon in a safe environment with all current guidelines in place.

“We know our members love a good karaoke, me included, At the moment there would be no Christmas music sadly, but hopefully plenty of Christmas cheer.”

The Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce has backed the appeal, asking local businesses to support the charity and donate towards Christmas dinners and resources for the club.

The club plan to serve a three-course dinner, as well as a gift to the sum of £15.

Plans are being drafted to serve 50 people across 25 tables per session, running over 10 days.

Through local businesses and individuals from the Clydebank community, 180 dinners and gifts have already been paid for so far.

Jim and his team are also aiming to bring a virtual Santa’s Grotto to Golden Friendships club for 1000 children.

Each child will receive a selection box and, with enough support, a gift from Santa.

Jim said: “If you would like to donate any selection boxes, we would be very grateful. We don’t want the kids to miss out. We would like to thank everyone for their continued support.”