Linstone Housing threw open the doors of its Community Hub in Johnstone to welcome everyone to a garden party which sizzled with the help of a free barbecue.

The Community Hub is one of two which Linstone operate in Johnstone for the benefit of the community with a third Hub located in Linwood.

Face painting, predictably, proved an instant hit with Spiderman the top request. Firefighters from Johnstone community fire station provided a close-up glimpse of the inside of their fire engine while a magic show mesmerised an eager young crowd.

Police officers from Johnstone police station also came along to support the event.

Paisley and Renfrewshire South MP Mhairi Black called in to see the family fun in full swing. Free fruit added a healthy touch to the mouth-watering burgers and hot dogs. 

Lesley-Anne Junner of Linstone praised the community for turning out in force and said: “The Sandyflats area of Johnstone is well known for its community spirit and our garden party certainly proved a big hit.

“It was another opportunity for Linstone to engage with the community we serve and to make the most of our hub which has been a remarkable success in bringing people together.”

The day was organised in partnership with Active Communities in Renfrewshire. Its aim is to “create happy, healthy and active communities where people enjoy being healthy and physically active”.

Linstone continues to promote its ‘Linstone 20/20’ initiative set up to mark its 20th anniversary in 2018 and the garden party was organised as part of that.

Linstone 20/20 is funded by the Scottish Government’s Social Economy Growth Fund and is an ongoing project to support communities, promote social inclusion and increase employment opportunities.

It also seeks to create a sense of belonging and neighbourliness and building confidence, personal resilience and providing opportunities to support and inspire others.