Queen's Baton Returns To Glasgow

20 July 2014, 11:59 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

The Commonwealth Games baton came home today, finally arriving in the host city following its marathon journey across a large part of the globe.

The Queen's Baton returned to Glasgow, where it was designed, marking the final countdown to the opening ceremony of the 2014 Games.

The baton relay, which got under way in October, is now on its 285th day. The symbol of the forthcoming Games has already been held aloft by tens of thousands of bearers across 70 nations and territories of the Commonwealth.

Its arrival in Glasgow marks the finale of its trip through Scotland, where it has already spent more than a month.

The first day in the host city sees the baton going through the city centre, including the Merchant City, Buchanan Street and George Square. It also takes in communities such as Garnethill, Cowcaddens, Dennistoun, Easterhouse, Riddrie, Balornock and Springburn.

The relay is also paying a visit to some of the Games venues, including the Emirates Arena, Tollcross International Swimming Centre and Celtic Park.

One of the first people to carry the baton in Glasgow was Gordon Robertson, 47, from Denniston, who was nominated for his role as an athlete and coach of GB Paralympic and Special Olympics teams.

As a specialist in the 200 and 400 metres on the track, he won a host of honours in international athletics. He now coaches young athletes at the Red Star Athletics Club in Glasgow.

Mr Robertson handed over the baton to Julia Birkinshaw at the Gallery of Modern Art.

He said: "It was a great experience, it's a special occasion for me. It's a special occasion for the city, it's really been great. It will be a good two weeks.

"It feels like it's the beginning of the Commonwealth Games, it really is just a couple of days away.

"It's the biggest sporting event the city's ever likely to hold, so I just hope the people of Glasgow enjoy it and have a great time.''