THE Three Towns will soon have five day a week foodbank cover with the opening of a new branch in Saltoats.

North Ayrshire Foodbank operates from the Church of the Nazarene in Princes Street in Ardrossan on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

A new branch in the Salvation Army Hall in Manse Street in Saltcoats has opened on Tuesdays and will also be open on Thursdays from November 27 giving full week day cover for the Three Towns.

Foodbank co-ordinators say this will save clients’ spending money on bus fares.

The Saltcoats branch – started up by local churches – began life in the Focus Centre but has moved to a more central position for convenience.

A foodbank volunteer said: “Everyone at Focus was very helpful but the location wasn’t ideal.” Ten volunteers staff the facility on a rota basis.

North Ayrshire Foodbank co-ordinator Craig Crosthwaite commented: “Having a new branch in Saltcoats is brilliant.

“Anything that makes it easier for people to get to a foodbank to access parcels and not have to spend money on travel is a good thing.” “We’re very grateful to the people of Saltcoats for setting up the new facility.

Craig also revealed that he is in discussions with North Ayrshire Council to use community centres and other facilities including staff to assist in the work of the foodbank – potentially allowing the foodbank to operate six days a week.

“We’ve been having some very positive discussions,” he said.

The Saltcoats foodbank is open from 12pm to 2pm and accepts donations of non-perishable good and voucher holders can collect food parcels and baby items.