AN open letter from protestant and loyal order organisations in Glasgow has called for 'discipline' from supporters as a de-escalation of tensions is worked towards across Glasgow.

Earlier this week a meeting was reportedly held between a number of organisations, along with council and police staff.

Groups, including the the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland and Glasgow County Grand Lodge, together with Scottish Protestants Against Discrimination (SPAD), and the Apprentice Boys of Derry, sat down with officials to discuss how to move forward following weeks of unrest at parades across the city.

In a letter, signed by these four organisations, grand master Jim McHarg said that they were working towards a 'de-escalation of tensions in our communities'.

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Mr McHarg said: "This week, the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland, Glasgow County Grand Lodge, together with Scottish Protestants Against Discrimination (SPAD), and the Apprentice Boys of Derry met with the Chief Executive of Glasgow City Council and the Police Scotland Divisional Commander for Glasgow to discuss recent issues around parading.

"This meeting was open and honest and we are hopeful that we can make further progress over the coming weeks.

"All parties are united in wanting to see a de-escalation of tensions in our communities. Our city has a rich history and heritage, and is home to people of many different faiths.

"Whilst we look to continue our discussions with city officials around parading, we would ask our members to continue to conduct themselves with dignity, discipline and respect."

Grand master McHarg also denied any involvement in recent violence from members of the lodge, and called for respect to be shown to other groups.

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"We were not part of the violent disorder that marred our city a few weeks ago, and we would encourage other groups to show the same calm and restraint that we have. Glasgow is our home, the streets belong to us all, and we look after it.

“Finally, as we continue to work diligently behind the scenes asking for our rights of free assembly to be upheld, and our right to parade peacefully, we should ensure that we show this same respect to other legal, peaceful organisations or groups.

"If we all show a mutual respect to each other, we can all continue to promote our own faith, culture and heritage in our great city.”

Glasgow City Council have been approached for comment.