DALMUIR Park has been recognised as one of the best outdoors spaces in the country.

A record total of 73 parks across Scotland were given the Green Flag award status by environment charity Keep Scotland Beautiful.

Dalmuir was noted for the quality of the outdoor space and the wider benefits to the community, including encouraging exercise, improving mental well-being and play for child development.

It was the only one in West Dunbartonshire recognised and the most westerly park in all of Scotland, ranking with Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens and Pollok Park and Morningside Park in Edinburgh.

The park got two awards earlier this year from Keep Scotland Beautiful for its restoration project.

Councillor Iain McLaren, the council’s convener of infrastructure and regeneration, said: “The restoration of Dalmuir Park has been a huge success and we were delighted to see the project recognised by Keep Scotland Beautiful earlier this year.

“For the park to now be given a Green Flag award really is the icing on the cake.”

Derek Robertson, chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, added: “Good quality green open spaces are vital to the health and wellbeing of local communities, families and individuals. Parks and open spaces are a fantastic asset – they are free to use and provide opportunities to exercise and socialise.”