Tunnock’s chief hails Greenock Floating Support Service

Majors Russell and Catherine Wyles, Boyd Tunnock CBE, Brian Murphy, Project Manager at Greenock Floating Support, service users Chris and Alan, and work placement student Claire Ferguson

Biscuit king Boyd Tunnock CBE has paid tribute to a Salvation Army project in Greenock.

Boyd, who runs the famous Tunnock’s bakery in Uddingston, praised the ‘uplifting’ work of the Greenock Floating Support Service – which helps people at risk of losing their tenancy by offering support with addiction, budgeting and other issues.

Manager Brian Murphy and service users from the award-winning project yesterday gave a talk to members of The Salvation Army’s advisory board for the west of Scotland. The board is chaired by businessman Boyd who was joined at its AGM in Glasgow by fellow senior business and commerce figures to hear about The Salvation Army’s work in Greenock and around the country.

Boyd Tunnock CBE

Boyd said: “The Greenock Floating Support Service is a wonderful project that is clearly making a difference to people’s lives.

“The Salvation Army has The Lord on its side and covers all areas without stepping on anyone's toes. When you see church and charity in action it is such an uplifting sight.

“I also have to thank Majors Russell and Catherine Wyles for doing a great job as divisional commanders of The Salvation Army in West Scotland.”

Greenock Floating Support Service manager Brian, who was in charge when it won UK Salvation Army Centre of the Year in 2012, was joined yesterday by service users Chris and Alan, and work placement student Claire Ferguson.

Service user Chris says The Salvation Army saved his life after he spiralled into despair and depression caused by alcohol.

He said:  “I’m not exaggerating when I say that I wouldn’t be here without The Salvation Army. The support I received was the wake up call I needed to sort my life out.

“Before then, alcohol was my crutch and I found myself in a number of dangerous and life-threatening situations. But The Salvation Army was there for me when I needed it and thanks to its compassionate support and practical help I am enjoying my life again.”

Major Russell Wyles

Majors Russell said: “I have to say a massive thank you to Brian and the service users who spoke so passionately about the Greenock Floating Support Service. This is just one of 37 different centres that The Salvation Army has in the west of Scotland.

“I’d also like to thank Boyd and the advisory board who have provided invaluable support for many years. Without them we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.”

To watch a short film about the Greenock Floating Support Service, visit here