The first community shop in Kilwinning opened its doors on Monday.

The Woodwynd’s Wee Shoap is being run by the volunteers of the ACES group.

This is part of a North Ayrshire Council’s plans to build a community food network including the Fullarton Community Hub in Irvine and Café Solace in Kilbirnie.

Residents are asked to pay £3 which allows them to buy goods up to the value of £15.

Woodwynd’s Wee Shoap in Kilwinning follows the successful launch of Ardrossan’s Quaint Larder late last year.

Both shops have a membership scheme basis and provide a mini supermarket-like environment where residents have the opportunity to choose their own food.

Unlike a food bank, the pantry is not emergency food provision, and no referral is required to access the Wee Shoap.

Membership is open to everyone and all that is needed to join the scheme is a letter to confirm your name and address.

Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, the shop is currently operating on an appointment-only basis.

It will be open on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 3pm.

To make an appointment please call 07719 480 807 or contact the ACES Woodwynd Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=aces%20woodwynd or Twitter accounts @ACESWoodwynd.

Colin Young, the man behind Woodwynd Community Association and ACES, said: “After our Neighbours helping Neighbours project which saw us deliver over 6000 support parcels, we realized there was a need for longer term support to the residents in Woodwynd.

“The objective is for Woodwynd's Wee Shoap to offer further friendly, dignified and affordable food support families and residents who may benefit from our provision.”

Councillor Louise McPhater, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “With Covid-19 restrictions still in place, this continues to be a difficult time for so many and we know that resources like the Woodwynd’s Wee Shoap will be a welcomed addition to the community.

“I want to thank everyone who helped to get this facility up and running, and to everyone who has donated items to the pantry. The support within our communities really is inspiring.

“We will continue to work hard to help other community organisations provide food through community fridges and pantries in the next few months.”

If you would like to donate items to the larder call ACES Woodwynd on 07719 480 807.