A CLYDEBANK community exchange charity welcomed the public to their new premises over the weekend.

The Recycle Room in Clydebank opened its doors to residents at their new space at Unit 7 in Clyde Street Business Centre.

The organisation previously operated out of the The Hub on Kilbowie Road, but had to find a new home when the centre was forced to close during the first lockdown in March 2020.

However, the organisation were left to struggle as The Hub was later reopened as a Covid testing station.

Nichola Mable, founder of the charity told the Post: “It was difficult because when The Hub opened we were allowed to be open, but it was a struggle because there was never enough parking and people need help at all given hours.

“I still receive messages at 3am asking for things.

“It will make things a lot easier. It is all on one floor with easy parking and very close to the town centre.

“It is located in a nice area of Clydebank that links up to the waterfront. We are very excited to open up as we know it will be busy for us.”

The Recycle Room has been open throughout the pandemic to offer people in the area bundles of donated clothing and household essentials - and even a caravan.

Nichola added: “Honestly, that came as a shock to me. I would never have expected someone to donate a caravan. I have had unusual things before but not this.”

Any donations that cannot be used are given to fashion and textile students at West College Scotland’s Clydebank campus and Glasgow School of Art for projects.

“Everything gets used and recycled. Nothing goes to waste as I am a firm believer that everything can be made into something. I thought by donating clothes to the fashion students it would help them, but also turn something into a fashionable statement piece.”

Retiring Clydebank MSP Gil Paterson said: “There is a determination by the people that are making this happen throughout the pandemic.

“I know what they have done in the past and they continued it throughout. They have a fantastic place here and it has taken a lot of hard work to get it.

“It will make quite a fundamental change when you have absolutely nothing and have a place like this that gives you not only some goods, but some hope.”

The new premises can be accessed via South Douglas Street. No appointment is needed, but due to coronavirus restrictions only limited numbers are allowed in at once.

For more information and opening hours visit The Recycle Room on Facebook or email therecycleroom1@gmail.com.