A FORMER Greenock soldier who runs a charity from his own home helping homeless veterans has been recognised by the Prime Minister for his service.

Ex-Royal Highland Fusilier Alex McAnespie runs the 24-hour day helpline from his Rankin Court flat while also holding down a full time time job.

He has been recognised with the Points of Light Award by PM Rishi Sunak.

Greenock Telegraph:

The 60-year-old co-founder of the Homeless Veterans Project has come to the rescue of over 140 veterans suffering from conditions like PTSD who have ended up homeless.

They work round the clock on case after case helping former soldiers across the UK.

READ MORE: Councillor accused of conflict of interest

Homeless Veterans Project founder Alex said: "We are very proud of this award from the Prime Minister.

"It means a lot to get recognised in this way so we can raise awareness of what we still need to do to help our veterans.

"It is very difficult to get the help we need for veterans, their cases are very complex.

"In Scotland there is no recognition for veterans who are homeless.

"We have so many needing help and we never turn anyone away. We are getting a lot more women with children coming to us for help now as well.

"The cases are so complex but we speak to councils, housing associations, social work and whoever we need to speak to to get help."

Alex previously told the Tele how he was inspired to set the organisation up because of his own experiences when he left the armed forces.

After 23 years of service he ended up in a hostel and his wife and child were sent to another one while they waited for a council house.

Sign up to a Greenock Telegraph Newsletter HERE

Alex and co-founder Donna Armstrong will fittingly be presented with the award at Holyrood by two of their biggest supporters, West Scotland list MSP Pam Gosal and Glasgow list MSP Dr Sandesh Gulhane.

Alex said: "They go above and beyond to get us the help they need."

Both Alex and Donna, who lives in Renfrewshire are recognised in the Scottish Parliament with a motion by Pam for their achievements.

The charity assists veterans across the UK with securing tenancies and furniture, runs a 24 hour helpline and signposts peopletowards further support services for those struggling with mental health.