WORK to improve access and boost community involvement in Castlemilk Park’s woodlands has been praised by Scotland's environment minister.

The urban woodlands have been used extensively by local people for volunteering, health walks and for teaching school children about the environment.

A new 'Connect with Castlemilk Park' leaflet has been produced, detailing all the nature trails in the woodlands, in a bid to encourage more people to enjoy the greenspace.

Environment, biodiversity and land reform minister Mairi McAllan said: “The work being carried out here by local volunteers is getting more people involved in their local woodland and green space.

"It’s a great example of what can be achieved right in the heart of an urban area. The woodlands are providing a place for people to reconnect after a very tough 18 months.

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She added: "Even during lockdown, virtual woodland walks were being offered as part of a number of online activities.

"I’m glad to see that in-person activities are now resuming and would encourage people to get involved.”

Scotland’s Forestry Strategy aims to increase the diverse range of people and groups using woodlands.

Scottish Forestry has been supporting Castlemilk Park since 2011 through the employment of a Community Woodland Officer.

The work at the woodland has won several awards in the past and continues to deliver multiple benefits for the local community.

Volunteers are involved in woodland maintenance and are actively involved in hosting events.

Through guided walks, school children receive environmental education about the woodlands and the many forms of wildlife that live there too.

Most Saturdays, a health walking group meet up and walk the woodland trails which has been a hit in helping the community meet other people.