A COUPLE who need a helping hand have told how a Port community project has been their lifeline during the pandemic.

Although the building is closed, the spirit of the Muirshiel Centre in Port Glasgow is alive and kicking.

Tommy and Jean Morton are among those grateful for receiving a meal and practical help during lockdown.

Jean, 72, who has progressive MS, said: "They take Tommy out and about and we both get meals five days a week.

"They even took me for my Covid jabs.

"Even when Tommy was in hospital they brought down my lunch.

"I don't know what I would do without the centre.

"I can't thank them enough - they're a great bunch and worth their weight in gold in my book."

Tommy, 75, who has vascular dementia, usually attends the centre three times a week.

He said: "I've really missed it during all the restrictions.

"I've made a lot of friends through Muirshiel."

The couple also have great family support from their two sons and three granddaughters, who help them with shopping.

Jean said: "Our granddaughters are absolutely fantastic, I love them to bits."

Anne White, Tommy's key worker at Muirshiel, said: "Tommy is absolutely brilliant, he gets on great with the other service users and he does anything he can to help, from hanging up coats to handing out the biscuits.

"He enjoys playing dominoes and is also on the service users' committee."

Staff say they are as keen as the people who use the centre to open up again.

Christine Lindsey, acting head, said: "We can't wait to get everyone back."

Anne said: "We've really missed everyone."

Tommy and Christine are pictured.