A Christmas carol service designed to bring people in addiction recovery together with the local community is to be held in Renfrewshire next month.

Abbeycare Scotland is hosting a festive gathering at its clinic in Erskine, which provides residential detoxification and rehabilitation programmes.

Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister Elena Whitham will attend the event on Thursday December 21.

There will also be a performance from the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) choir, as well as a special visit from Santa organised by the Erskine and District Rotary Club.

Liam Mehigan, operations director of Abbeycare, said: “Our Christmas carol service is designed to spread community spirit during the festive period, bringing together our clients, staff and neighbours.

“This year we are being treated with a special visit from Father Christmas himself and the carols will be led by the wonderful NHSGGC choir.”

All current clients of Abbeycare and those who attend its aftercare groups are invited to the Christmas event, along with staff members who support them and their children.

Those living in the local area are also encouraged to attend.

The carol service will begin at around 6.30pm and Santa is due to arrive with his sleigh at 7.15pm, with opportunities for local children to meet him and receive a small early Christmas gift.

Refreshments will be provided inside the centre and the family-friendly event will allow those in the community to find out more about Abbeycare’s work.

“Erskine is a fantastic community that we are proud to be part of and we’d be delighted to welcome as many local people as possible,” added Liam.

“No tickets are required and we would encourage the residents of Renfrewshire to come along with family and friends.”