A FORTH VALLEY charity worker has been going the extra mile to bring some joy into the lives of those using her organisation's services.

Adele McNee, Bernardo's secretary for Stirling and Clackmannanshire, has been making personalised cards and donating them to the charity.

Her handmade cards are being used as a friendly introduction to families and young people new to the service.

The cards include a personalised greeting to say "hello" and asking them to get in touch.

She will also be making personalised cards for young people already linked with the service who have birthdays during the lockdown period, to make sure their special day isn't forgotten.

And, so the team are not put under any increased strain, Adele has offered to pick up stamps and post the cards as part of her daily exercise routine.

Adele said: "I'm more than happy to do what I can to help through these strange times."

Fiona Bennett, Bernardo's assistant director for services in Forth Valley, added: "Social distancing is one of the many things that has impacted hugely on our services, printing and handing introductory letters to new referrals is now not possible.

"But thanks to a bit of creative thinking and a lot of generosity Adele has been able to make contact with the families the charity supports and bring a little cheer into their lives too."

Barnardo's works to protect and support the UK's most vulnerable children and youngsters.