Jackie Baillie has congratulated Helensburgh Community Hub on becoming the first organisation in Argyll and Bute to host Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

The scheme will see all children from birth to the age of five in the Helensburgh Central and Helensburgh East area eligible to receive a monthly delivery of a book.

Meanwhile, fundraising will be running throughout next year to extend coverage to Helensburgh North and Helensburgh West.

The country music superstar and actress founded her Imagination Library having been inspired by her father who was unable to read or write.

The programme has grown to reach millions of children across the USA, Canada, Australia and Ireland. It was launched in the UK 15 years ago.

Jackie Baillie said: “When anyone says Dolly Parton, your first thought is of glitz and glamour but as well as being a larger than life public personality, she has a heart of gold, helping to develop children’s love of books and of reading.

“Reading is such an important activity which nurtures young minds and also brings families together.

“I am delighted that Dolly’s vision has reached Helensburgh and that young people across the area will be taking delivery of books through the Imagination Library.

“I also want to thank the hard working people at Helensburgh Community Hub for co-ordinating the programme locally.”