HELENSBURGH is one of 12 locations in Scotland to be named among the best places to live in Britain by The Sunday Times.

The accolade takes a wide range of factors into consideration including jobs, exam results, broadband speed, community spirit and local shops to compile the list.

Argyll and Bute Council were pleased to see Helensburgh and the hard work of a number of organisations who have invested in the town recognised.

A spokesman for Argyll and Bute Council, said: "This comes as no surprise. We have worked hard to regenerate the town centre, which has won many prestigious awards, as part of our £30 million pound CHORD scheme.

"Helensburgh enjoys a southerly aspect on the banks of the River Clyde and has an increasing array of award-winning restaurants, the innovative outdoor museum, an iconic Mackintosh building in the Hill House, together with a varied selection of independent shops and larger retailers.

“The area’s open for business culture continues to attract new businesses to expand in the area. The local schools have an excellent track record of success and ensure its young people have great opportunities to learn, grow, be ambitious and succeed.

“When complete the regeneration of the town’s Hermitage Park and the Waterfront Development will make the town an even more desirable place to live and visit."

Councillor Aileen Morton, highlighted that the surveys mainly focus on measurable benefits and don't always necessarily reflect what it's like to live there but shared what she though made Helensburgh such a nice place to live.

She said: "When I moved back to Helensburgh nearly 15 years ago to raise my family it was family ties and support that brought me back but now I genuinely struggle to think of anywhere else I’d rather live.

"The town has great community spirit with lots of different groups and organisations working to make the town lively with so many options for getting involved in sports or music or the outdoors or whatever else takes your interest.

"What I love most about Helensburgh though is the perfect balance of activities and busy town life with peace and quiet. I love that I can leave my house and a 40 minute walk has me in Duchess Wood, or on the seafront or up the top of Ben Bouie – other towns may have the same type of restaurants or shops but Helensburgh has even more to offer."

Councillor James Robb highlighted some of the things that make Helensburgh such a nice place to live.

He said: "Helensburgh is unique in its location on the water, good access to Glasgow, airport and rail. It is on the edge of the great Scottish outdoors and a world renowned National Park. It has real history and an outstanding built environment. Top all of that with a strong and vibrant community and you can see why it's so attractive.

"We chose to live in the town because it is a great place for children to grow up and pretty good for grown ups too."