A CLYDEBANK hotel is to play host to members of the armed forces for a Christmas lunch in a bid to raise awareness of a partnership programme.

The Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel will welcome members of ChamberFORCE, a partnership programme between Chambers of Commerce in Scotland and their local Navy, Army and RAF units, backed by sponsorship and support from Amazon and Highland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (HRFCA).

Almost 100 guests will hear from guest speaker Charandeep Singh, deputy chief executive at Scottish Chambers of Commerce as well as from an Amazon representative about the ChamberFORCE partnership.

Damon Scott, Dunbartonshire Chamber Chief Executive, said: “We are looking forward to a fantastic event.

"We are very fortunate that Charandeep has made time in his busy schedule to speak at our event.

"He is one of Scotland’s foremost business leaders and a key figure in influencing and shaping government policy on both Scottish and UK levels.

“It is extremely fitting that ChamberFORCE will form a key part of the event with the support of Amazon and HRFCA."

Jamie Strain, general manager at Amazon in Dunfermline, said: “We are delighted to support the ChamberFORCE programme as it very much aligns with our commitment and support for the Armed Forces as a Gold ERS Award holder.”

“Amazon has benefited enormously from employing ex-military personnel and reservists, and we want ChamberFORCE to provide a platform for many other businesses to enjoy the same benefits.”

This year, through its Military Programme, Amazon will recruit over 300 veterans, reservists and military spouses in over 35 different jobs.

"These jobs range from health and safety specialists, engineers, sales managers and team leaders to senior managers.

Charandeep Singh added: “I look forward to supporting the ChamberFORCE programme and unlocking the opportunities for Scotland’s communities.

"With many sectors and companies continuing to cite recruitment challenges and skills shortages as a barrier to growth, ChamberFORCE is an excellent example of how partnership working can tackle the big challenges facing our economy.”

The lunch will also support Clydebank's Golden Friendships Club, the nominated charity to benefit from this year's event.