CAR firm Arnold Clark has pledged to help a Glasgow charity that provides a lifeline for thousands of lonely pensioners across the city.

The Evening Times has backed a fundraising campaign by Glasgow Old People’s Welfare Association (GOPWA) to raise funds for a new minibus to transport hundreds of the city’s elderly to its day centres.

More than £5000 has been raised so far through grants and donations.

Now, Arnold Clark has provided a major boost to the campaign by gifting the charity the use of a new van for a year.

The vehicle will allow the charity to collect more furniture and other donated items for its fundraising shop on Dumbarton Road in the city's West End.

Eddie Hawthorne, Chief Executive and Group Managing Director, Arnold Clark “Arnold Clark is delighted to support Glasgow Old People’s Welfare Association by providing them with the use of a van for a year.

“They are a fantastic organisation that really help make a difference to the communities of Glasgow and we are proud to provide the transport they need to continue to carry out their important work.

GOPWA runs three days centres and a range of other services for the city’s elderly as well as 90 social clubs run by the elderly.

The Evening Times is backing the charity’s bid to raise funds for a new minibus to transport OAPs to its day centres.

Charity bosses say the existing vehicles are ageing and not fit for purpose.

Morag McIntosh, acting CEO for the charity, said: ““Thank You, Thank You, to Arnold Clark, the Evening Times and the readers for all your support to the charity during Old Peoples Week.”