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YOUNGSTERS from a Glasgow nursery celebrated their eco achievements by flying a flag.

Around 40 pre-school children from Jeely Nursery in Castlemilk have held a party after scooping the top eco award of a Green Flag.

The South Side group had been working towards the accolade for two years with drives to help reduce their carbon footprint.

They were joined by youngsters from nearby Castlemilk Day Nursery.

Both nurseries share toys in a bid to be more environmentally friendly.

Staff painted some of the children's faces and took part in Easter celebrations before flying the flag at their base in Castlemilk Drive.

And workers from the nearby Co-op Funeral Parlour dressed as Easter bunnies to entertain the youngsters.

Hazel Whitters, a senior pre-five worker with the Jeely Nursery, said: "It was a perfect day for our eco celebrations, for the community and the nursery

"It was a recognition of everbody's achievements and the children enjoyed themselves.

"The whole thing has been a big learning experience not only for the children involved but also for the parents and staff."

She added: "Our motto is reduce, reuse and recycle so that's what we try to do all the time."

Parents, children, and staff have used innovative ideas and practical techniques to protect the local environment, and support Scotland's eco-initiatives.

The nursery, which provides daily care and support to parents, carers and children aged up to five is operated from Castlemilk Community Centre and the Jeely Playzone is in a purpose-built centre in the Tower Complex.

A total of 54 youngsters attend the facility, which employs 12 members of staff.

The Jeely Piece Club has been a massive part of the Castlemilk community for more than 35 years.

It was started by a group of parents who wanted to provide play opportunities for their children and started one of Glasgow's first play schemes.

Eco-Schools is an international initiative designed to encourage whole-school action for the environment.

It is an environmental management tool, learning resource and award scheme.

The Eco Schools programme gives the Green Flag to schools and nurseries which help reduce their carbon footprint.

rachel.loxton@ heraldandtimes.co.uk