BIG-HEARTED workers who lost their jobs when the Thomas Cook shop in Largs closed when the holiday giant collapsed are giving up their time to help customers reclaim their cash.

The ladies are staging an event this weekend to help customers process their compensation claims over lost holidays.

The team will be working from Room restaurant in Gallowgate Square on Saturday between 11.30am and 3.30pm.

Ali Alison worked at the Tron Centre premises for 18 years and says the staff decided to make the gesture after being denied the opportunity to re-open the shop after the firm's sudden closure.

She told the News they then came up with the idea of hosting their own event in the town.

She said: "This is something that each and every one of us wanted to do.

"As of Monday this week, customers are able to start the process through the CAA to make their claims.

"We are aware this could be a daunting and confusing process for some, so as a thank you for all your support over the years, myself, Kim, Jacqueline and Claire have volunteered to help.

"Our customers are still really important to us and hopefully this is a way of thanking them for years of loyalty.

"We would like to say thanks to Stephen McDonald for allowing us to use Room and we are hoping plenty of people come along.

"If you need help with claims, advice regarding any third party bookings or just want to come along and say hello. We will do our best to try and help.

"We won’t be in our uniforms, but I’m sure people will all recognise us."

Ali said the staff have been swamped by messages of support after losing their jobs.

She added: "We woke up one morning to the devastating news like everyone else.

"The support from people in Largs and surrounding has been fantastic - everybody has been brilliant.

"It is something that has been very comforting for us at such a sad and difficult time."