A BIG-HEARTED businessman from Greenock is offering a bed to homeless people — by offering them the use of his van.

James McCairn says he was inspired to help after reading about a man who ended up pitching a tent in Glasgow and sleeping in the middle of the city as temperatures dropped to minus seven.

James runs the local Man with a Van firm, offering a furniture removal service.

James hopes his customers will help his drive by contributing donations.

James said: “The man I read about lost his job then lost his home and he now lives in a tent under a bridge.

“It just shows you that you never know what can happen.

“The temperature has been minus zero for days and it would be nice to help one night a month and to give people shelter.”

James plans to put his company’s van to good use by offering assistance to people living on the streets.

He said: “I am looking to arrange to take my big van up to Glasgow and offer space for six or seven homeless people and give them a safer place to sleep at night.

“I’m also looking for advice from anyone who works with homeless people to help with planning.”

James is looking for donations of sleeping bags, soft mats, flasks and warm clothes.

He said: “If any one can help and point me in the right direction it would be really appreciated.”

James has also done his bit for good causes before, raising money for Ardgowan Hospice and clearing up a local beauty spot free of charge after fly-tippers blighted it with rubbish. If anyone can help James they should call 07908 250712.