FAMILY, friends and a return to normal life – children in Glasgow have shared their wishes for the next 12 months as Scotland moves out of lockdown.

They talked about the coming year to coincide with Nowruz, or “new day”.

The 3000-year-old spring celebration marks the start of the Persian new year and is celebrated by more than 300 million people worldwide, including Afghanistan, Albania, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkey.

Afghan families in Glasgow are among those celebrating this time of regeneration, growth and change.

Pupils enrolled in Glasgow Afghan United’s (GAU) multilingual school programme have revealed how a return to normal life is their biggest wish.

Koshan, eight, said: “I’m so excited to be able to meet with all my friends and play football again.”

Zabiullah, 15, added: “I’m looking forward to seeing my grandparents and going on holiday.”

While Yusra, 10, said: “I’m completely fed up with the lockdown. I know it is here to help us but I want everything to get back to normal so I can go to restaurants and go shopping again.”

Award-winning GAU works with members of Glasgow’s diverse communities and its cultural programme has continued over the internet.

More than 100 women logged in for a Nowruz celebration on Sunday night, at which Glasgow Central MP Alison Thewliss was the guest speaker.

Abdul Bostani, GAU director, said: “The lives of families have been greatly impacted over the past year.

"As we reflect on the time that has passed and the lives sadly lost to coronavirus, we must also look to the future.

"Nowruz is a very important time that allows us to do just that.

“It can be difficult to stay positive during difficult times.

"GAU is working to support its members with online sessions and food deliveries to make it a little easier.

"Our online classes have helped children and young people stay connected with their friends and given them a sense of normality.

“They have shown tremendous strength and resilience through the last 12 months and their wishes for the new year show the things they value most – friends and family.

“We look forward to the day that we can all meet our family and friends in person again.

"If we stick together and follow the Scottish Government guidance, we will get through this.

“GAU would like to wish all those celebrating a happy, safe and healthy new year – Nowruz mubarak.”