Groups in Dumbarton and the Vale are being encouraged to apply for cash to spruce up community paths.

Grants managed by Scotland’s walking charity, Paths for All, aim to empower communities to improve access to the outdoors, helping people to be more active more often.

Last year, over 45 community and volunteer groups from across the country shared £90,000 worth of grants which allowed them to upgrade, maintain and signpost their local paths.

Now, community organisations and registered charities such as community councils, development trusts and woodland groups working in Scotland are being encouraged to apply for funding.

John Duffy, senior development officer at the charity's active environments team, said: “Grants of up to £3,000 are available to create, promote and maintain paths.

"Our grant schemes aim to create safe, accessible and welcoming environments for everyone to be active.

“In previous years, these grants have enabled groups to make small changes that improve people’s everyday lives, allowing them to get outside, enjoy active travel and be in contact with nature.

“There are two grants available - so pick the one that's best for your group and your area and apply today.”

The community path grant, supported by Scottish Natural Heritage, is offering up to £1,500 to provide groups with the resources they need to upgrade, promote, and maintain path networks near to where they live.

The community active travel grant, supported by Transport Scotland, offers up to £3,000 for a variety of path projects that make it easier for people to walk or cycle as part of their everyday, short journeys such as getting to the shops, work, school or public transport links.

The deadline for both grant schemes is 30 June, 2019.

For more information, visit www.pathsforall.org.uk/communitypathgrants