A LEADING anti-poverty charity is urging people to support local businesses as they emerge out of the Covid-19 lockdown.

Children in Poverty Inverclyde, which sends local families on holidays, works closely with local businesses and retailers.

During the lockdown local businesses stepped up to help those in the greatest need.

Now the charity hopes they will be rewarded for their loyalty.

Founder Pat Burke said: "In Inverclyde, businesses have lost valued income and some might fail to re-open.

"Small business owners who have improvised and gone outwith their normal customer base have been rewarded for their vision and ability to react to change.

"Small family-owned bakers, butchers and fruit and veg wholesalers, with their resilience, have served our local community compassionately."

Children in Poverty has been working closely with local firms like MVM and others, using donations to purchase food for families in need during the crisis.

Since setting up five years ago the charity has received thousands of pounds of donations from local businesses.

With the impact of Covid-19 expected to hit hard, Pat fears the need for his charity is going to grow in the weeks and months ahead.

He said: "The effect of the recession will be most felt by the unemployed and low income workers."