A BARBER from Greenock proved himself a kind 'sole' after organising a mass footwear collection for homeless people.

Mitchell Mcfarlane, who launched the '1goodturn' initiative after his own personal struggles last year, has been taking to the streets to distribute items such as warm jackets, trainers, toiletries and sleeping bags.

This week he's been distributing trainers to mark World Suicide Prevention Day in a gesture he's dubbed 'Walk a Mile in My Shoes'.

Mitchell, 38, said: "Every Tuesday I've been going out to help those who need it most.

"I know what it's like as I've been in a similar position myself.

"This week I decided to change my night to tie in with Suicide Prevention Day which each year falls on September 10.

"My main focus is giving out trainers as they are something vital that will get them through their day."

Mitchell has been collecting donations from people in Inverclyde aand storing them in a lock-up at Inverstore in Lynedoch Industrial Estate, which the company have generously provided free of charge.

He has thanked all the local people who have helped him by making leaving donations.

Mitchell said: "Suicide affects so many people and my thinking is to take people's minds off whatever negative thoughts they're having, even just for a little while.

"I've found personally my own problems go when I'm helping other people - I just want to prove to these people their worth to the world.

"It's all about connecting people and helping where I can, you never know how much it may mean to someone at that point."

Mitchell is also hoping to kick-off a collection of goods in the coming months to distribute nearer Christmas.

*To donate to his initiative, message him on Facebook or find him on Instagram at @m1tch8ll.