The recovery of drug and alcohol addicts was compared in a study published on Friday to tackle the challenges they face.

Academics followed the journeys of 205 people in alcohol and heroin recovery in Glasgow.

The study, which marks the first Recovery Academy conference in the city, drew parallels between the two addictions.

Researchers said few differences were noted in the paths to recovery and stressed the need for strong support networks and "meaningful engagement".

Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing, one of the speakers at the conference, said: "The Scottish Government's national drugs strategy, the Road to Recovery, recently reconfirmed by the Scottish Parliament, provides the framework for a fundamental change in our approach to tackling problem drug use through a focus on recovery.

"The Recovery Academy conference, the first of its kind in Scotland, provides the perfect platform for assessing the progress that is being made through this enhanced focus.

"Recovery from serious drug addiction is possible and the research being presented today clearly enhances our knowledge of the challenges faced."

The event is part of the the wider Recovery Weekend, which invites people dealing with the effects of addiction, their families and friends to gather in Glasgow to meet and share ideas.