Offenders in East Renfrewshire have been paying their debt to the local community by assisting with an £82,000 renovation of Cowan Park tennis courts.

The work was a joint project between the criminal justice team and the environment department.

The renovation was funded from Scottish government's 'cashback to communities' fund, which works to improve local sports facilities while providing unpaid work placements for individuals completing community based sentences.

The playing surface of the tennis courts was overhauled, the war memorial restored and the park's footpaths reclaimed.

The work also involved weeding the park, trimming and pruning hedges and shrubs and landscaping.

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East Renfrewshire Council says the skills learned will enable the attendees to get back into the workplace and seek employment within landscaping or ground maintenance, to take up voluntary work or pursue education opportunities.

The work at Cowan Park is ongoing and will also result in the restoration and upkeep of St John's bowling club and its surroundings.

Cllr Alan Lafferty, convener for health and social work services said: "Having the workers involved in the construction of the new tennis courts gave them first-hand experience of a working environment where discipline, attitude and health and safety is paramount. It has also given all those involved a great sense of achievement, and the end result is a facility to rival any park. This is a great boost for Barrhead and feedback from locals who use the park has been very positive indeed."

Environment convener Councillor Vincent Waters said: "The community payback team have done an excellent job on improving the tennis courts in Cowan Park. They greatly enhance the facilities in the park and I have no doubt once the better weather comes along budding Andy Murrays and Elena Baltachas will be queuing up to play on the new all weather courts."

(IT)