TWO Clydebank community groups have been honoured by a leading charity for their contribution to the climate and nature.

Environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful praised both Flourishing Faifley and Action Old Kilpatrick for their work to improve their communities for people and nature.

Both groups were recognised during the Beautiful Scotland and It’s Your Neighbourhood annual seminar and celebration event which took place on Thursday, December 8.

More than 180 groups from 26 local authority areas were recognised with certificates and awards at the celebration event for their efforts to clean up and beautify their neighbourhoods.

The Post has reported on various projects the Flourishing Faifley community group held this year, from Easter egg hunts to a summer get-together, pumpkin picking at Hallowe'en and a winter fayre earlier this month at its Secret Garden base.

Group organiser Tony Ercoli explained it's been a successful year for his group.

He said: "Getting the level four 'thriving' award means a lot to us and everyone involved.

"With all the hard work the committee and volunteers have put in it's great to be recognised for having a positive impact on the green space in the community.

"Having a space like the Secret Garden helps deliver a great balance to nature and wildlife and also residents to be able to share enjoy and appreciate what we are achieving.

"And thank you to Knowes Housing Association for their continued support in the area."

Juliette Camburn, community projects officer with Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “We’re delighted to once again be celebrating the brilliant work of groups across Scotland who are doing so much to make their community a better place.

“Every It’s Your Neighbourhood entrant has made a lasting contribution to their area through their efforts and it’s great to see such a high number taking part this year.

“I’d like to congratulate and thank each and every group, alongside the 26 volunteer assessors we work with who give up their time, support, expertise and guidance, for all they do to make their community a cleaner, greener and more sustainable place for people and nature.”