THE Sainsbury’s store in Gourock has launched a partnership with Ardgowan Hospice.

The organisation is the store’s new local charity of the year, as chosen by customers through a public vote.

Ardgowan will now receive a year’s worth of support through fundraising.

Every time you buy a carrier bag in the Kempock Street shop, the 5p will go directly to Ardgowan Hospice.

Spokesperson Elaine McNeill said: “We would like to thank everyone who supported us in becoming charity of the year at Sainsbury’s Gourock.

“We are really excited, as the partnership will help us to continue to provide excellent care to the Inverclyde community.”

Ross Foster, store manager at Sainsbury’s Gourock, added: “I’d like to thank all of our customers for voting and can’t wait to see how the partnership develops over the next year."