GLASGOW'S West End Festival Mardi Gras parade it to return to the city...

and close Byres Road for the first time in five years.

Last year lack of funding meant the popular parade was dropped from the programme.

But a £15,000 donation from the founder of Glasgow-based online deals service itison.com, Oli Norman, means the parade will return on June 9.

And the money will allow the Festival team to close Byres Road for the parade for the first time since 2008.

Mr Norman said: "It was a huge blow to lose the Mardi Gras from the West End Festival programme last year.

"We saw the public appeal in the media and decided we had to make it happen."

The announcement was made last night at the launch of the WEF 2013 programme, which is hoped will attract record visitor numbers.

The brochure lists more than 400 events in 80 venues across the West End of the city – from music and theatre, to walks, talks and community galas.

Funding has also come from Creative Scotland and further £31,600 has been contributed from the Integrated Grants Fund from Glasgow City Council.

Festival chairwoman Liz Scobie said: "We asked for help and got it, which shows how much affection there is in the community for the Byres Road parade.

"The festival brings everyone out to have fun with friends and neighbours and it's impossible to put a price on that.

"Securing funding for the 2013 Mardi Gras was hugely important for the city."

The West End Festival runs from Friday, May 31 to Sunday, June 30.

For full event listings see www.westendfestival.co.uk

catriona.stewart@ eveningtimes.co.uk