Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill was in the town to officially open the new 3G Astro grass facility in Cowan Park.

Around £600,000 was gained from the Proceeds of Crime Act along with £244,000 of funding from East Renfrewshire Council.

Another £40,000 of the bill was picked up by members of Barrhead Youth Football Club through fundraising.

Community services and community safety convener councillor Mary Montague said: “This project is an excellent example how the Cashback for Communities initiative can work for the benefit of all in a local community.

“The council’s contribution of £244,000 is money well spent and the members of Barrhead Youth FC deserve many congratulations for raising an incredible £40,000 from their fund raising activities.

“I am sure the facility will be well used. The Barrhead Youth Football Club could do with more volunteers to help run the club and are also looking for young players born between 2005 and 2007.” The Barrhead 3G pitch is one of 37 being launched with support from the Scottish Government’s scheme.

Justice Secretary Mr MacAskill said: “As Scotland gears up for one of the greatest sporting events it has ever seen, I am delighted the young people of Barrhead can compete on their own state-of-the-art pitch.

“This will bring many benefits to both these youngsters and future generations, encouraging them to take part in healthy and enjoyable pursuits, and diverting a minority who may be at risk of becoming involved in crime and anti-social behaviour into more worthwhile activities.

“What is most satisfying for me is that this excellent pitch has been funded by cash seized from the very criminals who seek to bring misery to these young people and their communities.

“I hope both the pitch and the spirit of the Commonwealth Games will leave a lasting healthy legacy for Barrhead Youth FC and together with the other itches launched under this scheme, will help contribute towards us building a more active nation.” The Cashback for Communities Programme is a unique Scottish initiative which uses money obtained through Proceeds of Crime legislation and invests it in community activities and facilities, mainly for young people at risk of turning to crime or anti-social behaviour.

The provision of 3G pitches is also part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to provide a last legacy from the Commonwealth Games and a healthier and more active nation.

In total 31 full size pitches, plus six smaller ones, are being supported through the scheme. The Scottish Government has also invested more than £100 million since 2007 to support the development of sports facilities across Scotland.

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