Members of a support group for people living with multiple sclerosis have been given a helping hand by officers at HM Naval Base Clyde.

Dumbarton and District MS Group, which holds regular drop-in sessions in Helensburgh, was thrilled to receive a cheque for £265 from Chief Petty Officer Dave O'Neil recently.

Dave's wife Jenny is an active and very supportive member of the group.

Dave also attends some of their events with Jenny, to show his support for his wife and the group, and he raised this money by holding a raffle in the Senior Rates Mess at Faslane submarine base.

READ MORE: Support group welcomes funding for multiple sclerosis research

The group is also delighted to be launching a new counselling service for the MS community in the area.

Sheena Rollo, co-ordinator of the Dumbarton District MS Group, said: "MS affects more than 100,000 of us in the UK and it's often painful and exhausting.

"It can cause problems with how we walk, move, see, think and feel.

"It's unpredictable and different for everyone.

"We are part of a community of people that pool our experiences, expertise and voices to drive change and help people live more positively with MS.

"Our new counselling service can offer a safe space to talk to someone where there is no judgement and take comfort in the knowledge that everything you discuss is completely confidential.

"It is available to people with and affected by MS, and we can offer phone, skype or face to face sessions with a fully qualified counsellor.

"The main purpose is to offer support as it can be helpful to talk about something concerning you with someone one who isn't a friend or family member.

"Many people affected by MS can find it difficult to communicate openly about MS related issues with those closest to them."

The group was named 'volunteer/team champion of the year' at the Provost's Civic Awards in neighbouring West Dunbartonshire last year.

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They also offer shiatsu with their qualified therapist, an exercise class with their qualified instructor at their drop-in facility in Helensburgh every second Wednesday, and a lunch club at Ingliston Country Club every fourth Thursday.

In addition they offer various outings, including theatre trips and shopping days throughout the year, an Easter themed party, MS summer olympics, a Halloween party and Christmas celebrations plus much more.

For more information visit "Dumbarton and District MS Group" on Facebook or email dumbarton@mssociety.org.uk.

There is also a free helpline - 0800 800 8000.