A Largs charity champion is urging kind-hearted locals to donate their unwanted baby clothes to youngsters in need in Ukraine.

Gordon McKinstry, who runs the town’s table tennis club, is the local organiser for the Scot Baby Box Appeal, which sends pre-loved baby boxes and other essential items to the war-torn country.

He decided to get involved after looking to put his grandson’s unused baby box to good use earlier this year.

Gordon said: “I was trying to find a home for my grandson’s baby box as it was lying unused in our spare room.

“I was determined not to break the box apart and recycle, re-use is better than recycle, so I investigated some options.

“The Scot Baby Box Appeal was a quick winner but when I looked into where to take the box I found there were no drop-off points in North Ayrshire.

“I realised I could fill the car up and help take baby boxes or donations for other people in the area.

“I’m lucky enough to have a car and time on my hands so I contacted the charity and became a collection point for Largs and the wider area.”

Gordon has issued a rallying call to locals to get involved.

He explained: “I fully appreciate that there are lots of charities in the area and there is only so much people can give, but this is a great cause.

“All I’m looking for are baby clothes and items that are no longer needed but in good conition.

“These items are desperately needed by the unfortunate babies and toddlers that are caught up in the horrendous situation in Ukraine.”

Items wanted by the charity include changing mats, playmats, slings, baby towels, dummies, baby bottles, nappy cream, baby wipes, breast pads, sanitary towels and baby toiletries.

Gordon added: “The best way to get involved is to spread the word, and if you are in a toddler group then speak to other mums about this charity.

“If you know of somebody doing a spring clean and disposing of baby clothes then send them my way.

“Don’t worry about sorting the clothes into age groups, we can do all that when we receive the donations.

“Not everyone is on Facebook, but if you are then take a look at the SBBA page as they list items that are in desperate need and information about collection centres across Scotland.”

To make a donation message Gordon on Facebook, and for more information go to www.facebook.com/groups/1622035944909871.