Ms Goldie, MSP for the West of Scotland, heard first-hand accounts from former addicts and spoke to volunteers about the work of the centre during a two hour visit earlier this week.

The visit follows the launch of the Scottish Government's new drugs policy: 'The Road to Recovery: a New Approach to Tackling Scotland's Drug Problem', which the Kirkintilloch centre has welcomed.

She said: "It's tremendously encouraging to find such dedicated and hard working volunteers.

"This facility has a very important role to play in service provision. It is a great success."

She added: "I have been humbled to hear about the experiences of the people here today. They have had challenges in life and that's what makes them very credible for other people seeking help.

"The work being done here is helping people to look forward to a more positive life."

The Scottish Conservative Party has given its backing to the SNP's new drug policy, which aims to focus on supporting addicts through their recovery so, ultimately, they can live drug-free.

Centre co-ordinator Seamus Harkin said: "The new policy from the Scottish Government has been music to our ears.

"Hopefully Ms Goldie can use the work we are doing here as a positive model for others."