A PLEDGE to support residents who have seen active service in the military has been signed by Renfewshire Council.

The Community Covenant Agreement with the armed forces is a joint initiativewith organisations from across the area.

It is a voluntary statement of mutual support between a civilian community and its local armed forces, which aims to promote understanding of issues affecting both serving and former members of the military in the area.

Any projects in Renfrewshire which work to strengthen ties between the armed forces and the local community will be now able to apply for grants from a �30million fund announced by the UK Government in May 2011.

A proposal to sign the covenant was given unanimous cross-party backing by elected members at a meeting of the council last month, Provost Celia Lawson said: "We are delighted to support this scheme, which extends a firm hand of friendship from the local community to those who have served their country.

"Renfrewshire already has strong links with the armed forces; through taking part in activities to mark Armed Forces Day over the past few years, and having awarded the Freedom of Renfrewshire to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders last year.

"We also have a proud military heritage, stretching back hundreds of years, and by signing this covenant, we are helping to keep that relevant for the modern day." Lt Col Simon Higgens MBE RE, Commanding Officer, Glasgow & Strathclyde Universities Officer Training Corps and the MOD's Firm Base representative in Strathclyde, also welcomed the agreement.

He said: "I am delighted Renfrewshire Council and the other signatories of the covenant are cementing their already-excellent relationship with the area's military community, their families, and veterans.

"The covenant aims to ensure their selfless commitment is recognised by the society from which the military recruits. I look forward to developing these links over the years to come."