The North Coast Foodbank covering Largs, Fairlie, Skelmorlie and Cumbrae is open every Thursday from 12 noon to 6pm at the Citizen’s Advice Centre in Boyd Street, Largs (opposite Farmfoods).

Food is given out using a voucher system, and vouchers can be obtained from Brooksby.

Catherine Gill-Jamieson, spokesperson for the North Coast Foodbank said: “On behalf of the people who benefited from the service we thank all those who have donated to the foodbank.

“We are still receiving regular donations. People receive for many reasons, for instance, not just unemployment sanctions. Family bereavement, recently moving into locality or starting a new job can leave families, couples and single people financially struggling for a period. The service is available to help assist vulnerable people over these periods of crises.” The new Co-op in Gallowgate Street in Largs is also accepting donations from customers for the North Coast Foodbank, as well as donating from the shop stock. During the festive period, the Foodbank also provided a donation to the Age Concern group at the AD Cameron Centre in Largs.

The North Coast Foodbank was set up last October, urging the public to come forward with food packages, preferably non perishables such as tins, cereals, jars, packets etc.

To find out more about the new local Foodbank project, go to Facebook and type NorthCoastFoodbankProject in the search engine.