A TASKFORCE of women brought together through their love of an historic local glen are now campaigning to improve their community.

The Auchmountain Glen Women's Group are now widening their agenda in a bid to breathe life back into the east end.

They argue that although the Strone has undergone a transformation with new homes it is lacking amenities and the community spirit they once knew.

Susan Clabby, who formed the group, said: "Initially it started through the connection with Auchmountain Glen.

"I volunteered there and then we started a walking group, and we started doing more talking than walking.

"We want to get more women to get involved and bring them to the group."

One of the issues at the centre of Susan's campaign is the lack of shops in the area since the old houses came down.

Susan, pictured front left, said: "They keep building houses, to the point of overkill.

"We are now down to one grocer shop for the Strone, Maukinhill and Leven Road."

She said at the time of the major regeneration by Cloch Housing Association residents were promised a new 'convenience' store type supermarket but this has not happened.

Susan said:"A Tesco Extra would be ideal, or a Co-op.

"I know five different sites that could be used for shops and they would make their money.

"There's no competition in this area and prices are extortionate.

"It costs £2.50 on the bus and £2.50 back to go into town on the bus to do shopping."

The women held a social evening in the hall in Aberfoyle Road which was a sell-out success and put out a suggestion box.

Shops, amenities and promoting the Glen by encouraging school groups to visit topped the agenda.

Susan said: "The Glen is 70 per cent cleaner that it used to be and we would be interested to hear from schools if any classes would like to start a vegetable or flower patch.

"The Glen project received £20,000 from the council to reinstate the bridge at the top, which means you can walk right up to the dam."

The group ranges in age from 16 to 58-years-old and members are bursting with ideas.

Susan said: "We are thinking of cooking for older people in the area and delivering it to people who don't get out, running special evenings with bingo, a youth club, family fun days, messy play and a 'Strone's Got Talent' competition."

One of the youngest members Demi O'Donnell, 17, said: "We are looking to set up a youth club as there is one for eight to 12-year-olds but there's nothing for other age groups."

The group meets on Thursdays at 2pm in the Auchmountain Glen Project Hall on Aberfoyle Road and all are welcome.