South Lanarkshire Council budget cut by A[pounds sterling]17.5 million.

That was the task facing the council's executive committee members who finally agreed the 2010/11 budget on Monday.

While it means big cuts and price rises for many council services, it wasn't all bad news.

Many community group and gala committee members breathed a huge sigh of relief as their funding was retained.

Council leader Eddie McAvoy said: "This package achieves a balanced budget in South Lanarkshire and allows us to move forward to meet our priorities."

Money has been ringfenced for gala days across Clydesdale.

Carluke Gala chairwoman Ruby Mitchell said: "I am really pleased with this decision as we need all the funding …