FORMER military personnel in Clackmannanshire will be reaching out to other ex-soldiers as part of a befriending initiative.

The Wee County Veterans and Supporters Group, which is always keen on welcoming new members, has been going from strength-to-strength and is working with a charity to offer support.

Jo Wilkinson, chair of the Clacks group, told the Advertiser: "Some of our veterans have recently become involved in a befriender programme through Legion Scotland and will soon be out and about visiting other veterans.

"If there is anyone you know who might benefit from this programme, please get in touch."

She is encouraging other former service people to go along and reap the benefits of regular bi-weekly meetings starting 1pm every second Friday at Sauchie Resource Centre and other activities taking place.

All aimed at preventing and reducing loneliness and isolation among those locals who served in the armed forces.

The meetings are also a place to just come together, share memories and identify common interests.

Members of the group also participate in flag-raising ceremonies and Remembrance Day programmes, visits to Scottish Parliament and attending a monthly veterans' breakfast at Weatherspoon's in Alloa, which are just some of the activities on offer.

Last December, the group was delighted to be able to offer Christmas hampers to veterans, thanks to generous donations from Sauchie and Coalsnaughton Parish Church.

The group first came together in September 2015 and is always open for anyone looking to get out of the house.

Tommy Douglas, veterans support manager with Legion Scotland, was at the latest bi-weekly meeting of the group and spoke about new veterans' ID cards which are to be rolled out.

He has been working with the group to offer support and explained how Legion Scotland operates a referral system to offer help.

Even if an individual's needs cannot be met by the charity, case workers make sure partner organisations step in the provide the help necessary.

Jo also wanted to give thanks to MSP Keith Brown, Ally Gemmell, Tommy Douglas and the congregation at Sauchie and Coalsnaughton Parish Church for their support over the years.

Anyone interested in the befriending programme can call Jo on 07914 123 329.