A restored fountain erected in memory of a former Lord Provost responsible for bringing clean water to Glasgow has been unveiled.

On Wednesday, 14 October 2009, the anniversary of the day fresh water flowed into the city for the first time.

Lord Provost Bob Winter paid homage to his municipal forefather before switching on the fountain.

The £500,000 council-led project to restore the 'A'-listed structure to its former glory has been carried out in partnership with Glasgow City Heritage Trust, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), Scottish Water, Better Glasgow Fund and The Pilgrim Trust.

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It involved the cleaning and repairing of stone and bronze work, remedial and renewal work to sculptures, drains, installing an underground water recycling system and a new water proof lining to the water basins.

The fitting of the underground water recycling system will allow the fountain to operate in a sustainable manner for the first time in its long history.

Lord Provost Bob Winter said: "The Stewart Memorial Fountain is a lasting legacy to the late Lord Provost Robert Stewart whose drive, determination and energy brought clean water to the people of Glasgow. I believe that single deed made the biggest impact on the citizens of this city in terms of health, wealth and improvement of social conditions, than any other. It also revolutionised industry.

"The fountain, inspired by Sir Walter Scott's poem, The Lady of the Lake, has captured the imagination of many. Now that it is restored to its former glory, I am certain it will become a wonderful attraction in much the same way as the Doulton Fountain in Glasgow Green. The fountain is an elegant and fitting tribute to the man who brought our city and its citizens clean water."

(GK/KMcA)