The first community pantry in Scotland outwith Glasgow has opened its doors in Greenock

Inverclyde Council is investing £60,000 in the project which will be run by local group The Trust to offer families fresh food at affordable prices and tackle waste.

The district is the first local authority area in Scotland outwith Glasgow where one has been established as part of the Scottish Pantry Network.

The shop will be stocked with good quality surplus goods for the benefit of all Inverclyde residents and will operate on a membership basis.

For a small weekly fee people can get access to the scheme.

The council has provided a shop unit for the pantry which had been lying empty and it has been upgraded by Trust employability trainees.

Stephen McCabe, leader of Inverclyde Council, said: “This is a fantastic initiative to help tackle food insecurity while reducing waste and improving health outcomes for people.

“I’m delighted that we’re able to support residents in accessing quality goods for a fraction of the usual price.

“We’re also seeing an empty retail unit being brought back into good use."

Anyone can join for an initial £1 annual membership fee, which will allow them to purchase a weekly £2.50 voucher to fill their bags with goods worth between £10 and £15.

Andy McCann, who is from The Trust and will be running the pantry, said: “It will be open to all and is a great way for communities to save money and come together to tackle the issue of surplus food.

"We are all very excited about getting it opened.

“The renovation of the shop over the last few weeks has provided an excellent opportunity for our young trainees to gain new skills and training.

“We’ve received lots of positive interest and messages of support and we hope that as many people as possible will get involved as members and volunteers.”

The pantry will offer everything from fresh fruit, vegetables and meats to tins, jars, packets, cereals and the odd sweet treat.

There are also stocks of nappies and it's hoped some household items and toiletries will be added over time.

Veronica Doherty, chair of Grieve Road Community Centre, who has signed up to volunteer, said: "I think it is a great idea, especially because this is a deprived area

"It is the first community pantry in Scotland outside Glasgow.

"During this pandemic there are more people struggling than ever and this is for everyone in Inverclyde.

"It's just like a subsidised shop - people pay £2.50 a week and get the equivalent of £15 shopping.

"It is all good produce."

Local councillor Tommy McVey, also welcomed the opening, saying: "There is no doubt that times are tough at the moment and as such, hard-working families and those living on their own may need some additional support.

"The pantry is a great way of providing that support to residents, not only here in ward seven, but all across Inverclyde.

"It’s a great initiative and my thanks go to council officers and the team at Inverclyde Community Development Trust who have made it happen.

The pantry will be open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays and you can find out how to get involved at www.facebook.com/trustinverclyde