Supporting communities and the people who live there remains the focus for Maryhill Housing as it marked 40 years at its AGM.

Attendees heard that other key objectives include regenerating the Maryhill and Ruchill communities and helping young people through apprenticeships.

The AGM took place in the restored Maryhill Burgh Halls – a fine example of the regeneration work undertaken by Maryhill Housing and others who worked tirelessly to restore the iconic Victorian building.

In his first address to members as chair, Roger Popplewell paid tribute to his immediate predecessor Lorain Mackinnon, recently named as runner up in the Mary Barbour Award for inspiring women in housing.

Roger thanked Lorain for the advice she had given him following her five years in the role as chair.

Unveiling the 40th anniversary commemorative Annual Review entitled ‘Past, Present and Future Roger said the four decades since 1977 had been “transformational” in terms of the difference Maryhill Housing had made to people’s lives.

He added: “Maryhill Housing has brought some real benefits to the community notably in terms of regeneration but we remain ambitious for the future.”

He cited the ongoing regeneration work of the organisation, better recent performance on repairs, a significant reduction in rent arrears and the improvement in performance overall at the Association.

Chief executive Bryony Willett told the meeting that the special year of celebrations had been firmly focused on the people the Association served with a year-long calendar of community events.

Bryony also said Maryhill Housing was “firmly committed” to helping young people through apprenticeships - not just with the Association but with suppliers and contractors.

This fits well with the excellent work being done by the SFHA through its recently-announced apprenticeship initiative.

Bryony also gave details of Maryhill Housing’s development programme which will see new housing built throughout its communities in the coming years.

Further 40th anniversary events to mark Maryhill’s milestone are planned in the coming weeks.