A GREENOCK councillor proved he was hands on after helping elderly residents stay on their feet.

Tommy McVey received calls from people living in Merlin Avenue asking for a handrail to be fitted outside their homes.

The terraced houses open out to a steep cobbled slope, which has in the past caused some people to slide and fall in the winter.

Cllr McVey contacted River Clyde Homes and managed to get the handrail installed.

He said: "Although this is a small path, it is quite steep and can be very slippery especially in winter.

"I am therefore pleased that RCH agreed to my request to have the handrail installed."

The rail will make it easier for residents to access the car park, which was upgraded when the new houses were built in Merlin Lane in 2019.

Grandfather Alastair Weir, 80, pictured with his wife Bridie, 87, said: "I've slipped on the ice here before.

"I am very pleased the handrail has been put in place, as we will definitely have to use it in the winter."