AN advice centre which supported generations of residents in a Renfrewshire village has closed its doors due to the combined effects of lockdown and the internet.
Opened in 1986, the Pirie Information Centre, in Bridge of Weir, provided a vital service to the village’s 5,000-strong population.
However, fewer people have been seeking help in recent years, as much of the information provided can now be accessed online.
The centre, based at Freeland Church, in the village’s Main Street, has also been unable to open its doors for six months due to the coronavirus pandemic.
That, coupled with the falling demand for services, has now forced organisers to close the doors for good.
Over the years, ‘The Pirie,’ as it became known, has been a drop-in hub for people looking for information on the likes of bus timetables, benefits advice and community events.
It also provided a booklet for residents, with details of local organisations, as well as running a Helping Hands scheme to assist housebound people with small tasks around their home.
Visitors also benefited from a Credit Union.
Founder and co-ordinator Irene Macfarlane, 73, said: “Most people now have access to the internet and are therefore able to source their own information.
“The Pirie has become much quieter in the last few years and, latterly, most of the inquiries were mainly for bus timetables.
“After discussions with the Pirie Board of Management, the decision was made to bring this venture to a close.”
The centre was initially staffed by employees whose salaries were paid by the former Manpower Services Commission until 1988, when funding ran out.
Financial support thereafter proved difficult to source.
As a result, 15 volunteers were recruited from the congregation and the wider village community to keep the hub open, with Irene made co-ordinator in 1989.
She added: “The Pirie Information Centre has served the village for over 30 years in one form or another.
“It has helped many people along the way, thanks to a wonderful group of volunteers.
“Freeland Church hopes that this venture has been a useful service in the community and thanks everyone who supported it.
“It’s a sad day for the village but a sign of the times.”
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