INVERCLYDE MSP Stuart McMillan has welcomed a global phone giant's commitment to helping local people who are digitally excluded.

Mr McMillan popped into the Vodafone store in the Oak Mall to donate an unused smartphone to the company's Great British Tech appeal.

The appeal encourages businesses and members of the public to donate unused digital appliances like smartphones, tablets and laptops to people who need them most.

Mr McMillan said the coronavirus pandemic had highlighted the scale of digital exclusion and its impact on the most vulnerable people in society.

He said: "I’m sure everyone has an unwanted phone or tablet device lying around unused in a drawer.

"If everyone donated one item, it would go a long way to supporting people who are digitally excluded, including refugees arriving from Afghanistan."

Registered charities of any size can apply for free connectivity and unused digital appliances can be dropped off at the Greenock store.

To find out more visit www.vodafone.co.uk/techappeal