The group, which was set up in April, was visited by a Beautiful Scotland neighbourhood awards assessor on August 7 to find out how they are faring in efforts to improve their local environment.

This is the fourth year of the scheme in Scotland, which aims to give support and recognition to beginner groups making their area a better place to live.

Milngavie in Bloom has adopted Milngavie Train Station, putting three oak barrels there with flowers in them. They have also tidied up the start of the West Highland Way, getting rid of the weeds, as well as planting outside the Fraser Centre.

Groups will be marked on four sections, how much they are involved in the wider neighbourhood community including sponsorship and fundraising, horticultural/landscape features such as hard and soft landscaping projects, floral displays, environmental quality, for example the absence of litter, provision and maintenance of street furniture, wildlife conservation and the overall impression of the effort made in the improvement of their local environment.

All groups entering the scheme receive hints and tips from the assessor during and after the visit, and will be awarded with a certificate at the Beautiful Scotland annual seminar on November 10 at the Albert Halls in Stirling.

Keith Jackson, chairman of the Beautiful Scotland Advisory Group which organises the Neighbourhood Awards, said: "This initiative is a fantastic place for community groups to start because the assessment in August gives them a focus for their projects, and the presentation of a certificate in November presents a great local publicity opportunity.

"There are many worthwhile reasons for taking part in the Neighbourhood Awards. Many groups tell us there is greater civic pride in the community as a result of the environmental improvements they are making, whether it is clearing up a littered pathway, brightening the streets with shrubs and planters, or creating a community garden."

Community groups can enter next year's Neighbourhood Awards by contacting Beautiful Scotland on 01786 471333 or by e-mailing beautifulscotland@keepscotlandbeautiful.org.uk