People in Helensburgh and Lomond have helped a charity shop go from strength to strength.

The Shelter Charity shop, based in West Princes Street, has spent the last 12 years raising vital funds to support those facing homelessness and housing issues.

The shop has recently been named as one of the best performing Shelter shops in Scotland,t achieving the highest sales nationwide in the week of June 10.

And new volunteer Karen Deverill told the Advertiser that the achievement couldn't have been made people without the community.

She said: "This is a remarkable achievement for a small town which can only be attributed to the dedication of an amazing team of volunteers and to the outstanding support from the people of Helensburgh and the surrounding areas over many years.

"On a daily basis, we are astounded by the generosity of local people who purchase our goods and donate a wide variety of items, many of which are valuable and much treasured possessions."

The charity now have volunteering vacancies on a Sunday and are encouraging people to spare a few hours to help a worthwhile cause.

The volunteers at the Helensburgh Shelter store doing a photoshoot of the donated itemsThe volunteers at the Helensburgh Shelter store doing a photoshoot of the donated items (Image: Newsquest)

They are also looking for donation of unwanted jewellery to a new mystery jar project which was stemmed by young volunteer Freddie.

Karen added: "Our enthusiastic volunteers span all age groups from school leavers, students, those in full time employment and others who are retired.

"All our volunteers are encouraged to present innovative ideas to enhance the shop and improve customer experience.

"Recently, one of our young volunteers suggested selling mystery jars filled with jewellery. Freddie did great work on this project and the jars are now available to purchase in the shop.

"Continued donations of unwanted jewellery would be much appreciated as the jars are expected to be in much demand! 

"It’s lots of fun with good company and volunteers are fully supported by the shop management team and other volunteers to develop their skills.

"The shop is going from strength to strength thanks to our lovely volunteers and the wonderful support from the local community and others who travel from further afield.

"It is hoped that this support will persist into the future enabling the charity to continue with its vital work."