FORMER world champion cyclist Graeme Obree is backing a pioneering project in Inverclyde which helps people cope with trauma.

Bike legend Graeme is one of a number of notable figures who have backed Safe Harbour.

The project, which has been funded by the National Lottery, offers vital emotional support to vulnerable people and also counts world leading US academic and activist Noam Chomsky as a fan.

At a recent relaunch of the service, based at West Station and run by local man Duncan Shaw, sporting hero Graeme spoke about his own mental health problems and his attempts to take his own life.

Afterwards the 51-year-old, who twice broke the world hour record, said: “I basically died twice but it might never have happened if the likes of Safe Harbour had existed. I really believe they could have helped me.

“Duncan is doing an excellent job here. Safe Harbour is such an important project and I really believe in what they are doing.

“We need more Safe Harbours.”

Founder Duncan, a therapist who put the programme together, is delighted at the success Safe Harbour has enjoyed over the last four years.

Staff work with people who are suffering trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and grief.

Duncan said: “We had the relaunch to say thank-you to everyone involved and to show just what has been achieved.

“We are being recognised widely for what we are doing here. 

“It is something that in the long-term we would like to expand in to other areas of the country.

“So many people believe in us.

“I received an email of support from Noam Chomsky and I hope to go to America in the near future.”

Safe Harbour has also had backing from Schuh footwear entrepreneur Colin Temple and law firm Shepherd and Wedderburn.

Duncan added: “We work with people who have suffered traumas like PTSD and get our referrals mostly from GPs. 

“It is disappointing nobody from the council came to our relaunch but we hope we can work with them in the future.”

Retired Greenock GP Dr Craig Speirs sits on the board at Safe Harbour and is passionate about their work.

He said: “I am very proud to be involved.

“There is some extraordinary work going on here.”

Safe Harbour secured £600,000 two years ago from the National Lottery and grants officer Gilly Young was at the relaunch — held in The Albany in Greenock — to show her support.

A delighted Duncan said: “I am very proud of what we have here.”