WARM clothing is on offer for people in need form across the Forth Valley on a “pay what you can” basis.

The Winter Warmers Community Hub launched this week at the Thistles shopping centre in Stirling, offering a helping hand to anyone in the wider area.

Run by climate change charity Transition Stirling, the hub offers pre-loved but excellent condition outer- and knitwear, operating on a “pay what you can” basis.

The hub opened on Tuesday, February 7, and will be running until April each Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm.

Transition Stirling is managing the hub via its network of volunteer staff and shoppers are invited to take what they need to keep warm in return for a donation to the charity if they are able to do so.

Those unable to make a donation at this time are simply able to swap their existing coat for a warmer one without fear of judgement.

Donna Wood, opportunity developer at Transition Stirling, said: “We are delighted to work with Thistles shopping centre on the Winter Warmers project.

“Most of us hate to see good items go to waste and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to give good-quality clothing a second-life.

“We believe that this project will help to prevent waste and protect our environment, but also support our local community to ensure that everyone has access to the items that they need.”

The initiative is part of the shopping centre's #ThistlesHelps campaign.

Gary Turnbull, centre director, said: “These are exceptional times and the rising cost of household bills and weekly food shops is putting many families under financial pressure.

“We hope the Winter Warmers Hub will offer some relief to local families who are worried about keeping their loved ones in warm clothes.

“The hub has a range of winter essentials for adults and children and we welcome everyone who feels they would benefit from it to come along and take what they need.

“We would also welcome donations of any pre-loved items to help keep the hub fully stocked.”