Touch a Life, Make a Difference is being led by Provost Margaret Cooper and will encourage and recognise the work of local organisations, community groups, local people and schoolchildren to raise money for good causes across the area.

The majority of the Council agreed that the first beneficiary of the new initiative will be Kilbryde Hospice. To kick things off, a Burns Supper has been arranged for Friday February 9 with charity auctions, raffles and all money raised going to the Hospice.

The initiative is also supported by the Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire’s office.

Provost Cooper said: “There are so many wonderful organisations across South Lanarkshire who are doing tremendous work to help a wide variety of people that I thought it was important they got the recognition they deserve.

“Of course, we also want to raise a substantial amount of money for them too.

“Equally, those doing the fundraising also deserve a great deal of credit.

“For this year, the beneficiaries will be the Kilbryde Hospice, which I am sure has helped many people across South Lanarkshire over the years.

“In future years, I will have a framework in place which will allow local councillors to nominated charities in their area.

“I would like to thank Lord Lieutenant Lady Susan Haughey and Depute Lord Lieutenant Davie Russell for all their help in organising the Burns Supper. Without their support this substantial event would not have the same impact I expect it to.”

As well as supporting and raising funds for local charities, the initiative will also establish a South Lanarkshire Council Roll of Honour for Local Fundraising, which will recognise the input of local schools, nurseries, sports organisations, community and everyone who fundraises for the chosen charity that year.

A civic reception will be held to honour local fundraisers included in the Roll of Honour.