YOUNGSTERS from a South Side primary school have pledged to help their community by supporting a new initiative.

The Give a Day Back scheme involves individuals and organisations making pledges on St Andrew's Day about how they can benefit the area where they live.

The youngsters from Hampden Primary School in the Gorbals held an event to celebrate the launch and made placards with their own vows.

These included things such as promising to recycle waste properly, put litter in the bin and donate or buy from charity shops.

Head teacher Mary Cloughley said: "This is a great learning experience for our young people. Our aim is to be fully involved with the local community and by hosting events like this, we can be.

"All the staff have made a pledge as well as the parents and we hope we can set an example in giving something that does not have a 'price tag' attached."

The initiative is being run in partnership with Strathclyde Police, charity Glasgow the Caring City and Glasgow City Council.

Strathclyde Police Chief Inspector Tony Bone said it was established to recognise the assets of those in the community. He said: "The aim is then to make people recognise they don't have to wait for one day, but help their community every day."

Forging strong links with Strathclyde Police in the initiative is the children's charity Glasgow the Caring City, which aims to support community programmes of health, education and security.

Rev Neil Galbraith, the charity's CEO, is also chaplain for Strathclyde Police. He said: "Glasgow the Caring City charity strives to provide unique and rewarding learning experiences for children within our city.

"Our aim is inspire a new generation of active citizens and community leaders."