Saltcoats Veterans Breakfast Club celebrated their fifth year of “banishing isolation and encouraging friendship” with a special meal.

The Café Melbourne hosted the veterans on Sunday December 11 where they enjoyed a meal and music from local musicians Alec and Lesley Wilkie and Marion and Dougie McDonald.

The group first formed in December 2017 to provide a source of help and friendship for local veterans - gaining over 80 online members in its five years.

President of the branch, Paul Coffey, said: “In December 2017 with help from Elaine [of the cafe], we agreed to give the Veterans Breakfast Club a 2-week trial, then in the New Year interest grew and we have not looked back since.

“With no fees we have over 80 local Facebook members and close associations with Largs and Irvine Breakfast Clubs.

“Veterans and their families can face many challenges such as PTSD, isolation as well physical problems.

“The Veterans Breakfast Club, along with its network of 700 similar clubs, has been a lifeline for some and a source of help and friendship to others.”

The club also looked to wish everyone a happy festive period with Paul adding: “Happy Christmas and a safe New Year.”

The club meet every Monday morning at 9.15am at the Café Melbourne on Hamilton Street, Saltcoats.