FRIENDSHIPS are being forged between young and old during the lockdown - thanks to old fashioned letter-writing.

Youngsters who are attending school hubs have been corresponding with residents at Balclutha Court Care Home in Greenock.

The have also being sending out colourful artwork to cheer folk up.

Their creations are proudly on display throughout the care home and on residents' room windows at the establishment in Forsyth Street.

The home's Jill Magee said: "Carers had put a post on Facebook asking schoolchildren to write letters telling residents a wee bit about themselves, and some residents have sent letters back.

"We received loads of letters and residents are absolutely delighted.

"It's not that often these days you get the chance to send or receive a letter.

"The children put their addresses on them so they can get a letter back.

"It's lovely it has reached across the age gap, it's brought together the young and old."

The children have also sent drawings of rainbows and other colourful artwork showing what they are doing at home with their mums and dads during the schools shutdown.

Jill said it has given the Balclutha residents a huge lift.

She told the Tele: "It is keeping them all going and keeps their morale up.

"Although they have also been on Facetime and Skype to speak to their families to keep in touch with them too."

Staff have also received a welcome boost - and are celebrating employee of the week instead of employee of the month.

The initiative is to thank staff for all their hard work and commitment during these unprecedented times.

Each week's winner receives a voucher to spend online plus a personalised scroll from the general manager.