Led by the Provost’s Office, and supported by the Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire’s office, the initiative launched last year with more than £75,000 raised for the Kilbryde Hospice.

Towards the end of last year, the Council agreed that Sense Scotland and The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association would be the primary beneficiaries of the initiative for 2025.

Now six other local charities will also benefit from the charity: Hamilton Churches Drop In Centre, Bothwell Futures, The Haven Centre, Forth, East Kilbride and District Dementia Carers Group, Who Dares Cares and Rutherglen Community Carers.

How the money raised is shared between all the recipients will be decided at a later date.

Provost Margaret Cooper said: “I am delighted that the Touch a Life, Make a Difference initiative will continue this year and a total of eight organisations are to benefit from the people of South Lanarkshire’s generosity.

“I know many people are struggling financially at the moment, and I would just like to say that anything you can spare would be more than welcome, as we seek to help those less fortunate than ourselves.

“We kicked things off recently with a Burns Supper event which raised a magnificent £20,000 – a tremendous start, which we will build on throughout the year to raise as much cash as possible for these very deserving organisations.

“I would like to thank the Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire’s office for their continued support of the initiative.

“We will publicise our events throughout the year, so keep an eye on the council’s social media for more details.”

To find out more about the Touch a Life, Make a Difference charity initiative, including how to donate, email the Provost’s Office or call 01698 454 910.