A DECISION to protect 27 green spaces for generations to come has earned the city council a top environmental award.

The local authority was named Fields in Trust Partner of the Year at a ceremony at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.

Fields in Trust is the only UK wide organisation working to safeguard and improve recreational green space.

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The city council was nominated for the award after protecting 27 of its green places with the organisation as part of a Commonwealth Games legacy.

Sites covered include Cathkin Braes, Rosshall Park and Glasgow Green but also lesser known playing fields, parks and recreation grounds such as Riccarton Street Park in Govanhill, Binghams Pond off Great Western Road, Milton Park and Ashtree Park near Pollokshaws.

City council leader Frank McAveety said: “It is widely acknowledged having access to outdoor space and undertaking some level of activity has numerous mental and physical benefits for individuals and families.

“We were delighted to partner with Fields in Trust in this Commonwealth Games legacy project that protects 27 sites across the city and guarantees green space areas for citizens and visitors to enjoy now and in the future.”

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Brian Samson, chairman of Fields in Trust Scotland said the city council was leading the way in protecting such a significant proportion of green spaces.

He added: “We applaud the decision to safeguard recreational space for future generations.”