A HELENSBURGH and Lomond charity supporting children and families of submariners has been helped in its efforts thanks to a kind donation from Royal Navy personnel.

Home-Start Lomond received a surprise fundraising boost following the recent deployment of HMS Vigilant, the Navy's third Vanguard-class submarine, with kind-hearted submariners donating £720 to the local good cause.

Lt Cdr John ‘Jelly’ Eales set himself the challenge of rowing one million virtual metres while on the six-month deployment, sponsored by his crew.Lt Cdr John Eales' challenge raised money for the charityLt Cdr John Eales' challenge raised money for the charity (Image: Supplied) He chose to support the work of Home Start, as his wife Laura is the manager.

Explaining the important of the charity's vital work, John, who is the DMEO onboard, said: "Whilst spending time away on long deployments, I’m aware just how isolating and difficult the lifestyle can be for the families left behind.

"Home Start Lomond offers support and friendship to parents with young children, which can be life-changing for those struggling in isolation.

"They support both Naval families and the wider community in the local area, building life-long friendships and creating bonds and a sense of belonging, allowing these families, in time, to support one another.

"It’s been a privilege to have supported this charity whilst being away on deployment; I hope to continue to continue to raise money and awareness for them in the future."

(Image: Supplied) Laura said: "We appreciate the submarine crew’s kindness raising funds to help local families, at a time when they were separated from their own families.

"Home Start Lomond is entirely funded by grants and fundraising donations so this money will go directly to helping support local children and families.

"We would like to thank the crew for their generosity and support.

"As a small local charity we rely on fundraising and volunteers to help us deliver our life changing work and are always looking for new volunteers to get involved."

Home Start Lomond provides emotional and practical support to families with children under five through volunteer-facilitated one-to-one support and group support designed to build relationships and tackle social isolation.

For more information see www.homestartlomond.org.uk or email admin@homestartlomond.org.uk.