A COMMUNITY group have been served with a court summons after refusing to vacate from their base.

The Garthamlock Community Project based at Barholm Square, is being forced to shut up shop to make room for a housing development.

One of the only youth group facilities in the area, the organisation also runs a foodbank, advice service, IT classes and acts as a drop-in for vulnerable people.

Landlords City Property, an arms-length firm of Glasgow City Council, told the group they had to vacate by April 27 to make way for Persimmon Homes.

However organiser Geraldine Marshall, who founded the group more than a decade ago, refused to budge.

She started the organisation from her living room to help keep local kids off the streets, and agreed they could use her house if they did not drink.

The idea became a success and soon they were able to set up in a larger venue and offer more activities for kids.

The 57-year-old has been left "heartbroken" after being served a court summons, calling for her to appear on July 6, but she is planning to fight to keep her project where it is.

Geraldine, said: "We're looking into getting a lawyer but it's hard as we have limited funds.

"If we can't get one, we'll just have to do it all ourselves.

"The papers have to be back by the June 22, but we're determined to go to court.

"I'm just absolutely gutted about it all, heartbroken really. It's unfair. These people are just getting away with this and they don't seem to be answering to anybody.

"I would love to have these bosses in court with us as well."

Glasgow City Council say they offered the Garthamlock Community project new premises but the group said they did not have the money to refurbish and fit a kitchen and bathroom.

Two other shops in the same row - a butcher an post office - are thought to have declined similar offers.

A City Property spokesman said the housing development plans would help to regenerate the area, and added: "Due to the redevelopment and regeneration of this area there is no possibility for the group to remain in their current premises, City Property and Glasgow City Council will therefore allow the legal process to continue in order to secure vacant possession of the Barholm Square shops.

" The shops are occupied by a post office, a butcher and a community group. It is understood that Persimmon has engaged in discussions with the tenants with a view to relocating them in the new retail development, but at this point none of the tenants have taken up this opportunity.

"It is unfortunate that Garthamlock Community Council find themselves in a position where they have to vacate their premises.

"However, it must be emphasised that they have been aware of this requirement for some time.

"Discussions have taken place with the Community Group in respect of an alternative site."