A LONG-LOST oil painting of the Glasgow Fair by a Paisley born artist has been secured for the city.

The work by John Knox who died in 1845 shows Glasgow Green packed with people enjoying a welcome day out around 1820.

It was bought with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund, trustees of the Hamilton bequest and Friends of Glasgow Museums.

The detailed work will go on display in Kelvingrove Art Gallery at the start of next month.

Glasgow Fair illustrates the event held annually on the city's oldest common in the early years of the city's expansion when trade, commerce, art and enterprise were flourishing.

The grand landscape, which features over 1000 figures bringing together rich and poor, the privileged, soldiers, street vendors and beggars and the booths, sideshows and rides they enjoyed.

Glasgow Life chairman Archie Graham said: "The visually striking work has great relevance and the people of Glasgow as it was painted by a local artist who lived in the city for most of his life.

"And it shows Glaswegians enjoying themselves at the Glasgow Fair in the city's oldest park.

"It also helps us understand the historical importance of a holiday many of us still enjoy every July.

"I have no doubt it will be an immediate draw for our visitors who can learn lots more about the painting and the artist through a programme of events and activities which will accompany its display at Kelvingrove."

Colin McLean,