Eight people sought help from the winter Overnight Welcome Centre in Glasgow on its first night.

Glasgow City Mission operates the service where over the winter months people can go to its base at Crimea Street in the city centre.

They will be helped to find accommodation or other support if they need it.

Previously, before the pandemic, the mission used Lodging House Mission hall near the Barras for a night shelter where up to 40 people could be put up on mattresses on the floor.

Last year a city hotel was used and people referred to services in the morning.

The new service works to find people one of many available emergency beds in the city.

Glasgow City Mission said: The OWC is a refuge for everyone this winter, including those who may not be automatically eligible for accommodation.

“As we have in the previous 12 years, Glasgow City Mission and partners will work tirelessly to ensure anyone in danger of sleeping rough this winter is offered a bed for the night.”

The OWC opened on Thursday night.

The City Mission said: “We are delighted to report that the eight people who came to the service were either accommodated in the city, returned to their home or had the medical attention they required.

“All eight had positive outcomes. Our daytime team is now working with those who went into emergency accommodation to help move them forward. One night down, 120 to go.”