A vital service which supports people struggling with shopping bills has been backed by Fullarton Parish Church minister the Rev Neil Urquhart.

People from across the community are using the Choices Shop & Food Larder, which is run by volunteers.

Fullarton Hub is the main base for the facility, which is run by a team of volunteers.

Rev Neil said: “People pay just £1 to join and they can then pay £3 for a good shop. 

“The stock includes surplus food from supermarkets and other items donated by members of the public.

“It’s not the handout which the Foodbank gives, which is necessary at times, but the beauty of the Food Larder is that you have the dignity of paying.

“It’s not simply a handout, one of the things about the Foodbank is that it can undermine your self confidence.

“The Food Larder also helps people take responsibility which is something they can do. It has been well used in the community.”

Fullarton Church offer a three-course meal forunder £3 every Tuesday at Cafe Solace, which is run by the Alcohol and Drug Partnership and there is a free meal at Grub ‘n' Gospel on a Friday.

The cafe is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays for people to drop in.

Neil said it is vital that the church connect with people.

He said: “We also have Christians Against Poverty. The beauty of CAP, the Food Larders and Cafe Solace where people can give a little to receive the help. Also in the space we have at Connections people can come here rather than having to heat their own homes.

“God is not in the business of humiliation but he’s in the business of humbling that helps us look for the help that we need through the difficulties and dangers. It’s about trying to be there for folk.”