THE annual School Uniform Bank of an Alloa charity is set to open to the public next week.

The Gate charity in the town, which started as a soup pot and also runs a busy foodbank, will be offering new and used school clothing, footwear, bags, PE equipment as well as new packs of underwear and stationery.

It was referrals only first to make sure the most vulnerable children have access, however, no referrals are needed during the open week from Monday, July 29 to Friday, August 2.

Anyone is welcome to pop in between 2pm and 4pm on those days.

There has been an overwhelming response to the initial appeal earlier in the summer and the charity is no longer accepting donations, other than blazers and school bags.

The initiative has enjoyed the backing of local politicians Councillor Ellen Forson and MSP Keith Brown, who received thanks for their support earlier in June along with the Yorkshire Building Society and Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface.

The bank is at the Gate Centre under 2 Ludgate, call 01259 218 766 for a full list of items available.