Inverclyde's favourite charity champion is back on the road

The Tele recently told how Tommy 'The Clown' Armstrong feared that he would have to give up fundraising after losing his vehicle - which he uses to drive to collections and marathons - after it was damaged in a car park collision.

Greenock businesswoman Hassia Chalmers was so moved by his plight that she stepped in to make a generous donation and lead a fundraising campaign.

She inspired others to join her and now thanks to their support Tommy is now the proud owner of a new motor.

Delighted charity man Tommy, aged 78, said: "I am just over the moon.

"I'm so grateful for everyone's help - it means such a lot to know the people of Inverclyde are behind me.

"It feels magic to be back on the road.

"I will now be back on the streets fundraising.

"I wouldn't have been able to continue without a car.

"I couldn't afford another one and I would have been forced to just give it all up."

Benefactor Hassia teamed up with Port Glasgow mum Lynne Lindsay and other generous donors raising around £4,000 for the car, a red Hyundai with insurance and an MOT from McMillan Motors, who also contributed a discount.

Hassia, who owns Sovereign Jewellers in West Blackhall Street, said: "I just wanted to do all I could to help Tommy.

"Life has been good to me and I feel very lucky so I just wanted to give some of that back.

"Tommy is a wonderful person and does so much for Inverclyde.

"I am delighted to see him drive out of here in a new car fit for the road."

Over the last year Greenock senior citizen Tommy has clocked up hundreds of miles to raise money for charities like Mary's Meals and Children in Poverty Inverclyde.

McMillan Motors sales manager Ray Pascasio said: "We are proud to be able to help Tommy.

"He is so well known in the community for his charity work."