VOLUNTEERS who help out at a foodbank are being offered free transport.

Big hearted taxi bosses who already offer free food deliveries are hoping the ­gesture will persuade more people to help throw a lifeline to the hungry.

A free mini bus service is being launched to take volunteers between Johnstone Railway Station and Renfrewshire Foodbank in neighbouring Paisley.

Debbie Anderson, of Johnstone TOA, said: "As a local business we couldn't stand by and do nothing when we heard about the growing number of food banks in the area.

"We have been following the Evening Times' Food for Thought campaign and it's great to see it's making not just local people but business too stand up and do their bit for others in their community who are struggling financially during these difficult times."

The private taxi firm already to delivers free of charge food parcels donated by customers for the Abercorn Street-based bank which operates three distribution centres.

Ms Anderson added: "Extending our food bank ­delivery service to offer free transport for volunteers in the Johnstone area has been an easy decision for our management team, and we hope the service is well used by local people."

The move was welcomed by Roslyn McVeigh who manages Renfrewshire Foodbank. She said: "Transport has always been an issue . Not everyone has a car,and the thought public transport may discourage some.

"The free mini-bus, is fantastic idea and we hope it encourages people to volunteer a few hours of their time a month."

The Evening Times' Food for Thought campaign wants a more co-ordinated approach to ensure foodbanks have a network of support and that people know where to go for help.

Potential volunteers should email info@renfrewshire.foodbank.org.uk