THE school uniform bank at The Gate will operate from Alloa Town Hall when it opens up for Wee County families later this month.

The local charity has confirmed it will once again operate the school uniform bank, which supported 350 young people last year.

Due to the ongoing Covid–19 crisis, however, it will not be based at the charity's centre in Alloa where space is currently required for the busy foodbank.

Marie Brownhill, centre manager, said: "Due to the significant increase in referrals we are continuing to receive we have no room at The Gate Centre this year to operate the project within the building.

"Our foodbank project needs are taking up the whole building so we had to consider an alternative venue this year.

"We believe that the school uniform bank is needed more this year than ever before to support families affected by the Covid-19 crisis."

The open week will be held at Alloa Town Hall from Monday, July 20, to Friday, July 24.

Each day people will be able to visit between 11am and 3pm with strict safety procedures in place.

A referral system is also in place to ensure the most vulnerable children get access first.

Before that can go ahead, items for the school uniform bank and volunteers are being sought with a donation station set up at Tesco this week.

Items can be dropped off any time during opening hours until next Friday, July 10.

Sought are new and good quality second hand items such as school bags, lunch boxes, PE kits, ties, footwear and stationery.

People can also take items to the charity's centre at 2 Ludgate between 3pm and 5pm on weekdays.

The charity will not be able to accept any items after July 10 due to limited space.

The Gate has given thanks to Clackmannanshire Council for its support and assistance with the project.

Marie explained the project could not have supported 350 children last year without local support and she is also appealing for volunteers to help out.

She added: "The project is for our community and very much supported by the community.

"We are very grateful for the continued support."

Anyone looking to volunteer can call 01259 218 766.