ACTRESS Elaine C Smith reprised one of her roles from 20 years ago - by cutting the ribbon at the opening of new premises for a Glasgow charity.

Geeza Break, which provides respite services to vulnerable families, moved from old premises in Shettleston to the old Savings Bank at Parkhead Cross.

Elaine opened the charity in the 1990s when it was based in community flats in Barrowfield.

Elaine, 54, who lives in Mount Vernon, said: "It is a delight to be able to come to something like this and to see this building used for a great purpose because it is a beautiful building.

"We live in an age of celebrity, where it is all about celebrity and aspiration. But the people who really should be noticed are ordinary men and women who are out there at the coalface making sure vulnerable children are getting care."

Geeza Break launched in 1992 to help vulnerable families, such as single parents, grandparents who care for children and those affected by drugs and alcohol abuse.

It provides respite care, as well as parenting and cooking classes, and The Toffee Club, a fun club for school children during holidays.

The charity, which employs 13 people as well as respite carers and volunteer carers, supports more than 250 families in the East End. It moved to the Gallowgate building after outgrowing its former premises at Academy House.

Louise Kilby, 68, chairwoman at Geeza Break, said it had moved to be more accessible to families and new parents.

She said: "We wanted to be in a position where families could just drop in."

As well as being on the main street, the new facilities are three times the size and the charity is hoping to open a creche.

Louise added: "Elaine is an East End girl who has a particular interest in what's happening in the East End.

"I am delighted she has come back 20 years down the line."

Doreen Paterson, Geeza Break chief executive, said: "We thought it was quite a historical moment for Elaine to be opening it again."

Local MSP John Mason, who attended the opening, said: "Geeza Break does valuable work in supporting local families who really struggle, so its continued development is very welcome."

matty.sutton@ eveningtimes.co.uk