Scotland's urban woodlands are to be spruced up with over £870,000 funding from the Scottish Government.

Over 20 projects across Scotland are receiving the cash, ensuring that local woodlands make a bigger difference to the health and well-being of communities living nearby.

The work will include: opening new and improved walking trails, clearer signage, planting more trees and holding walking, voluntary and special events that will encourage the community to work together to become more involved in the future of their woodland.

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Environment Secretary Richard Lochead at CraigmillarVisiting Craigmillar Castle woodlands, where funding has helped the transformation and regeneration of the area, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, Richard Lochhead met with children learning about the environment under their Forest School initiative.

Mr Lochhead said: "More people than ever before have access to woodlands on their doorstep. I want Scotland to make the most of this fantastic natural resource. Well managed woodlands are a natural retreat away from the business of modern urban life and are a great setting for us to get more active. Even at this time of year woods are also full of wildlife interest.

"I am pleased that the funding I'm announcing today will help kick start 22 projects that will provide woodland benefits for individual enjoyment, as a focus for communities, and as a part of successful sustainable urban regeneration."

(GK/JM)