A TOTAL of four new jobs and 22 volunteering opportunities for local people have been created by the opening of a flagship charity donation centre in Greenock.

The Salvation Army has unveiled a new store on the former Topps Tiles site on Container Way. 

The 4,000 sq ft shop is the 45th donation centre opened by the Salvation Army Trading Company across the UK. 

People from all over Inverclyde headed along to the store on Thursday morning to see it officially unveiled by Lieutenant Colonel Carol Bailey and Councillor Graeme Brooks. 

Greenock Telegraph:
Councillor Brooks said the launch of the facility was 'fantastic' for the Inverclyde community. 

He added: "The Salvation Army is a wonderful organisation and it's great that this facility has opened in Greenock.

"Inverclyde has a great tradition with the charity sector. 

"This centre will be there to support people and generate funds for the amazing work the Salvation Army does across Inverclyde and beyond."

The team of staff and volunteers, who are all from Inverclyde, will be led by store manager Amanda Gray. 

Greenock Telegraph:
Amanda said the power of social media really helped the team connect with the community in the run-up to the launch. 

She added: "We gave people a sneak peek of the store and documented the whole transformation process, from a shell to what it is today. 

"It was great to engage with the community and involve them in what we're doing. 

"So many people turned out to support us today which was just amazing.

"We're very proud to be part of the Inverclyde community we're here to help people.

"Everyone is raring to go."

Lieutenant Colonel Carol Bailey, who is originally from Greenock, said the store will be a place for people to shop and to seek support. 

She added: "This is a very important day for the Salvation Army in Greenock. 

"We want to be seen as a beacon of hope. 

"We will work with people and be a positive part of the community. 

"Everyone visiting the store will be treated with respect, compassion, and understanding."

Greenock Telegraph:
Salvation Army Trading Company development support co-ordinator Angus Adams said all donation centres have the same ethos - to provide a place for people to donate, volunteer, and have a great shopping experience.

He said that Amanda and the team will be there for people in need of support. 

Angus added: "If people are in crisis situations, we can signpost them to services in the community. 

"Our core message is to support the community in the best way we can."