A CHARITY which delivers essential shopping supplies to older people in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire has appointed a new chief executive.

Rosie McLuskie has taken the helm at Food Train from April 1.

The accomplished third sector leader succeeds Michelle Carruthers, who has led the organisation for 21 years.

Food Train's services aim to ensure older people can lead healthy and independent lives.

Rosie, formerly Scotland director for We Are With You which supports people with drugs, alcohol or mental health issues, holds a health and social care background, a crucial element for her new role.

She said: "I cannot wait to get started at Food Train.

"This is a charity which not only improves lives, but saves them - ensuring older people not only get the groceries they need to eat well at home, but the company they need to live well too.

"The health of far too many people suffer tragically as a result of malnutrition and loneliness.

"Food Train and its tremendous volunteers stop both.

"I am determined that this charity will continue its great work in not just supporting our members, but in being a voice for them too - to ensure their opinions and experiences are heard, as well as their needs met."

The charity's chair, Alan Dalziel, welcomed Rosie.

He said: "We are delighted to appoint Rosie to the CEO role as her experience, determination and leadership qualities are exactly what the charity needs to serve the best interests of our members, volunteers and staff going forward.

“We also express our heartfelt gratitude to Michelle for her outstanding leadership over so many years and wish her the very best for the next chapter in her life.”

Details for volunteering with Food Train are available at www.thefoodtrain.co.uk.