THE construction firm which built Glasgow's Riverside Museum has donated "tens of thousands of pounds" to boost the city's arts scene.

BAM, which was also involved in the £35 million transformation of Kelvingrove Art Gallery, has become the first corporate supporter of Glasgow Arts.

The organisation, which is part of Glasgow Life, boosts the development of arts and cultural activity in the city.

It supports individual artists, performers and arts organisations and actively encourages access and participation in the arts.

John Burke, BAM's executive director, said: "We have been involved in developing and building many successful, award winning projects in Glasgow, including the refurbishment of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and the creation of Riverside Museum, so we are really pleased to be a founding sponsorship partner of Glasgow Life."

BAM Construct UK is presently developing a £70m office and retail development on Queen Street.

Glasgow Life chairman Archie Graham said: "These new corporate sponsorships are another example of how we can work with the private sector to find new ways of funding the vital work we do in Glasgow.

"Having BAM properties onboard as a founding partner will help us work with more artists and engage citizens and visitors alike with the arts in Glasgow and bring even more arts projects within reach of as many people as possible."

Glasgow Life was set up in 2007 to deliver services and manage facilities on behalf of the city council, including its art galleries and museums.

The charity aims to inspire city residents and visitors to lead richer and more active lives through culture, sport and learning.

A a result of its charitable status, in its first five years, Glasgow Life has saved the council more than £50m.

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk