The city has missed out on its bid to become European Volunteering Capital, but has pledged to continue to build volunteer participation

A Scottish city has missed out on being named European Volunteering Capital 2020.

Stirling was beaten to the title - which recognises regions which offer outstanding support for volunteers - by the Italian city of Padua.

Supporters of the Stirling bid gathered at Volunteer Scotland’s offices this evening (Wednesday 5 December).

Those behind the bid, which has been led by Volunteer Scotland; Stirling Voluntary Enterprise (SVE) and Stirling Council, said they were disappointed to miss out but pledged to build upon the momentum gathered in applying for the title.

Natalie Masterson, chief executive of SVE, said the groups involved have made a committment to get half of the local population to volunteer.

She said: "There has been a huge amount of work and committment from all the partners and supporters, and we'll look to build on that.

"I'd like to say a huge congratulations to the city of Padua, it's a fantastic win for them. We look forward to working with them.

"This award would have been fantastic, but for us it was all about what we could to do to increase volunteering. That still stands and we will look to build on the large amount of people who already volunteer in Stirling."