LABOUR has launched its bid to retain control of Glasgow City Council in the local government elections by pledging to create 1000 jobs every year for young people, graduates and the over-50s.

In its 100-point manifesto, the party also pledges improved childcare, more help for carers, an Oyster card – like those used in London – to make travel easier, free wifi across the city and the use of community payback orders to clean and maintain areas around residential properties.

Gordon Matheson, the council leader, said it was a manifesto to fight poverty, create jobs, provide chances for the next generation and look after the elderly.

After decades in power and serious unrest within its council group particularly over the last year, Labour is facing a serious challenge from the SNP and it knows that even if it is the largest party after the election a close result could mean a coalition of the other parties would keep it out of power.

Launching the manifesto yesterday, Mr Matheson outlined a "Glasgow guarantee" to provide everyone aged between 16 and 24 with support in the form of an apprenticeship, training or work.

He said: "Ours is the only major city where unemployment fell last year. Youth unemployment is rising at a fraction of the Scottish and UK averages, and more school leavers are going to university than ever before."

The manifesto also pledges to campaign for the reinstatement of the Glasgow Airport Rail Link, retain the Scottish Government's council tax freeze and introduce a "happy hour" at council-run five-a-side football pitches, providing under-16s with free access.

It also promises every child 15 hours of free childcare at the start of the term in which they turn three, which extends the current criteria by up to five months.

Mr Matheson claimed Labour was the only party which could speak up for the city, with no political ties to the Scottish or British governments.

He added: "But there is a choice in this election. The SNP are fighting hard. Their Glasgow leader, the woman who wants to lead this city, says this is a stepping stone to the referendum.

"But let me tell her – no-one steps on Glasgow. The local elections are about jobs, homes, schools, services, our whole city, and I will do everything I can to put Glasgow first."

Labour said the commitments would all be met by current spending projections.

A spokesman said: "Glasgow is unique in Scotland in having a combined capital and revenue budget approaching £3 billion annually. All the spending commitments will be met with that. We have a record of delivery in all these areas and will use our success going forward.

"Our capital programme has significant scope for flexibility and the rebuilding of the schools estate will be the first priority.

"Where the Scottish Government is able to assist, we will work with them, but their controversial Scottish Futures Trust has so far been of very limited use to Glasgow.

"By making tough decisions on back-office functions, we can protect, enhance and improve public services in the city."

SNP group leader Allison Hunter said: "Gordon Matheson's arrogant threat that 'no-one steps on Glasgow' completely sums up Labour's belief that they have a divine right to rule this city in perpetuity.

"On May 3 voters in Glasgow will have a chance to elect an SNP council which will bring in a whole new era of openness and transparency to their city."