NICOLA Sturgeon helped to open a new community garden transformed from waste ground in her constituency,

Organised by Great Gardens, the charitable arm of Govanhill Housing association, the development will be open to locals as a place of rest and relaxation.

Primary schools in the area, and voluntary organisations will also use the facility for classes and to learn about plans and wildlife.

First Minister, and MSP for Glasgow Southside said: “I’m delighted to officially open this community garden.

“It’s a fantastic addition to Govanhill and I’m sure it will be a huge success.

“I look forward to coming back in future years to see how the project develops.”

The community garden is designed to attract creatures such as bees, birds and butterflies thanks to its raised flowerbeds and a growing tunnel.

It also features a quiet reflection area.

Young people aged 16-25 years old will be taught new landscaping, gardening and horticulture skills on site, which is hoped could help them onto the employment ladder.

Chairwoman of Great Gardens and local resident Annie MacFarlane, said: "We want to encourage people from all walks of life to enjoy the garden, as well as grasping the opportunities to learn about recycling, composting and how to plant and grow new plants and edible vegetables and herbs.

"Although it is a working garden, we are especially keen to promote the use of additional benefits, such as relaxing in the fresh air, and the therapeutic and educational benefits offered to local schools and groups.

"The support we’ve received from those who backed the project will give the local community a real boost and help equip the centre with tools, seeds for planting and new garden furniture."

Funding for the project was provided by the Scottish Government, the Big Lottery Fund, the Grow Wild campaign and Glasgow City Council.

The project is one of 13 community initiatives across Scotland awarded funding by Grow Wild, encouraging people to grow native plants and transform communal areas.

A total of £41,500 has been handed out by the group to support community projects in Scotland this year.