MSP Jackie Baillie brought a touch of the Christmas spirit to Helensburgh recently, when she helped launch Tesco’s Winter Food Collection.

The politician joined store staff to rally support for the festive initiative.

A collection point has been created at the Sinclair Street branch, to allow generous shoppers to make donations destined for those experiencing hardship this Christmas.

Customers can either gift food items purchased with their own shopping or select a pre-packed donation in store.

Dumbarton MSP Jackie – also Scottish Labour’s Deputy Leader – backed the initiative, saying: “I am delighted to back Tesco’s Winter Food Collection, which will help benefit the poorest residents in our communities this Christmas.

“This is an extremely worthwhile collection, which will help some of those facing hardship.

“I thank both Tesco, and their dedicated Helensburgh store staff, for their efforts in co-ordinating this worthwhile appeal.”

The store giant has partnered with food charity FareShare – which redistributes donations of charitable and stock surplus foods around a network of independent organisations, to ensure it reaches frontline charities and community groups.

Items donated will then be redistributed to organisations in Glasgow and the West of Scotland. Helensburgh Store Manager, Ruhel Majunder, added: “I thank Jackie Baillie for helping us launch this year’s Tesco Winter Food Collection and I thank our loyal customers who always give generously to back this appeal.”