THREE city parks have been awarded a Green Flag in honour of their positive contribution to health and well being.

The Botanic Gardens, Glasgow Green and Hogganfield Park join 68 parks across Scotland to be presented with the accolade.

It recognises the importance of people having access to quality green open spaces.

A spokesman for the Keep Scotland Beautiful campaign group said: "Like all well maintained open spaces, the Glasgow parks make a tangible positive contribution to the nation’s well-being, with proven links between physical and mental health and easy access to safe, clean and inspiring green spaces.

"These awards are recognition for those parks making the most positive contribution and are important recognition for the part they play in the nation’s better health outcomes."

The Green Flag Award is the benchmark for green spaces and recognises the hard work of managers, staff and volunteers who help ensure that outdoor areas provide everyone of all ages with a safe, clean and inspiring local environment.

Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “Scotland's parks provide a valuable resource to communities across the country and access to quality green space is vital in helping to tackle some of the health and well-being challenges we face.

“I would like to congratulate the successful Glasgow entries and indeed all 71 parks from across Scotland for achieving this prestigious benchmark. The Green Flag Award scheme sets the standard for the management of our outdoor spaces and recognises the hard work of everyone involved. This award is a tribute to local people in Glasgow playing their part in creating and maintaining exceptional open spaces.”

John Howie, Organisational Lead for Health Equity, NHS Health Scotland said: “Where we live and where we spend our time has an important influence on our health and well-being. Good public places tend to be well looked after, are safe, attractive and accessible and strive to offer something for everyone.

“NHS Health Scotland are delighted that the Green Flag Award recognises these qualities and celebrates the invaluable efforts of Keep Scotland Beautiful, partners and communities across the country to ensure our public places continue to contribute to our health and well-being in a positive manner.”

A detailed map of Scotland’s Green Flag parks can be found at: www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/parks