A £5.2m restoration project of Aberdeen's Duthie Park has been completed and unveiled to the public.

As part of the ambitious project to return the site to its former glory, ponds and paths were restored, while the park's iconic mound – complete with spiral walkway and flag pole set on a granite plinth – was transformed.

A fun day was held on Sunday to mark the official opening of the new park.

The Heritage Lottery Fund provided a £2.56m grant for the project, with Aberdeen City Council donating £2.67m towards the 44-acre site.

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Aberdeen City Council Housing and Environment Convener Councillor Neil Cooney said: "This is an exciting new chapter in the long history of Duthie Park and Sunday's event will add to the many fond memories people have of this special place.

"The restoration project is something that has received unanimous support from start to finish and I must say the finished article is looking stunning."

Colin McLean, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) in Scotland, added: "It is at this time of year especially that people really start to appreciate our parks. Step through the gates of Duthie Park and you are suddenly away from the noise and bustle of the town and into a tranquil green place.

"This Aberdeen treasure has always been popular and with even better facilities and beautifully restored Victorian features, thousands of people of all ages will enjoy it even more."

The proposal to restore Duthie Park was first raised in 2001. After securing funds, work began in February 2012.

(JP/CD)