IT's a legendary tale of how William Wallace, along with 300 followers, revolted against an overwhelming English force occupying Glasgow in 1297.

After riding to Glasgow from Ayr, and outnumbered more than three to one, Wallace routed the enemy, and reclaimed the city.

And how centuries on a Glasgow councillor has called for the site of the Battle of the Bell o' the Brae to be listed as an historic battlefield.

Nina Baker, Green Councillor for the Anderston and City ward, believes that the site should be acknowledged by Historic Environment Scotland as a historic battlefield.

Langside is currently the only historic location in the Glasgow City area with such status.

Councillor Baker added her suggestion to the Proposed City Development Plan, which will be looked over by the Scottish Government.

She said: “The document mentioned that there was only one historic battle site in Glasgow and I thought that it was strange not to mention the Battle of the Bell o' the Brae. Even though it’s not a designated one yet, why would we not mention that there was this other battle?

“For many years I’ve been trying to get that area of Glasgow much better recognition because it’s in the historic heart of the city and it's really neglected by the development programmes.

“What ought to be the heart of tourism, is really unloved and unthought about.”

The proposal has been backed by the Society of William Wallace, who recently unveiled a William Wallace monument in the same area after campaigning for building permission since 2010.

Gary Stewart, Convenor Society of William Wallace, said: “I am a great believer in if you don't know where you came from how can you learn from your mistakes, and that's why I believe history of Scotland is so important.

“Most people in Glasgow would not have known Wallace was even in Glasgow and that's why this battle is so important.

“This battle also increased Wallace's reputation at the time as this was only months before the battle of Stirling Bridge.”

It is hoped that if the proposals go ahead, it would bring more footfall to the area and benefit local businesses.

Councillor Baker added: “Whilst it may not have been the longest-running battle, it is accepted as having actually happened and there is a Wallace monument to commemorate it. Given that the only currently listed Historic Battlefield (Langside) looks no more like a battlefield today than does the Bell o' the Brae area, I think the latter is highly deserving of such recognition.”

A spokesman for Historic Environment Scotland said: “Anybody can propose a battlefield for inclusion on the National Inventory of Battlefields. All they have to do is complete the application form and submit it to us.”

Among the many places made sacred by the deeds of Sir William Wallace is the Bell o' the Brae in High Street Glasgow. Wallace had vowed unceasing enmity to the English invaders of his native land. In 1297, accompanied by 300 horsemen, he rode from Ayr to Glasgow, and, reaching the town, divided his small force into two companies, one of which marched up the High Street, the other making a circuit so that the two bodies would meet near the head of the street. Here the English, 1000 strong, under Earl Percy, were attacked front and rear, and fled discomfited after their leader had fallen by the sword of the Scottish patriot. Wallace pursued them, and encountering another party of English near Bothwell routed them.