HELPFUL parents armed with shovels and grit have taken to the streets to get Glasgow’s children back in the classroom.

Following pleas from Deputy First Minister John Swinney, communities rallied against the Beast from the East by clearing pathways, pavements and playgrounds to ensure youngsters could return to school today.

Craigend’s Sunnyside Primary praised its parent council “snow angels” for organising a sweep of its playground prior to the children’s return, while Battlefield Primary expressed its gratitude as parents and pupils alike battled the cold to ensure the playground was safe for youngsters and St Ninian’s Primary in Knightswood celebrated its hero janitor for tirelessly clearing away the snow last week “just in case”.

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A Glasgow City Council spokesman said: “While we’re not asking parents to help clear playgrounds, we’re very grateful if they do.”

Mr Swinney added: “Throughout the country we are hearing many examples of people going above and beyond the call of duty, showing exemplary community spirit to help their local community deal with the extreme snowy conditions.

Glasgow Times:
Proud parents and pupils work hard to clear Battlefield Primary ahead of the school reopening, after last week’s shutdowns due to the heavy snow

“If you have capacity to help neighbours, or are the owner of large vehicles that could assist the clearance work on your local road, I would encourage you to volunteer and look out for vulnerable people.”

Schools across Glasgow and the west closed last week during the area’s first-ever red weather warning. 

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It is hoped schools and nurseries will return to normal today, however, parents have been encouraged to check social media for any issues which may have occurred overnight. 

The yellow weather warning remains in place until tomorrow, prompting calls from the Scottish Government for Glasgow residents to travel with caution and help take care of neighbours.

The city council has urged all residents to be aware of issues such as black ice and pot holes.