Glasgow to host 2014 Commonwealth Games

Thousands of Glaswegians today celebrated the news that the city is to host the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

A deafening cheer went up at the main bid party today as more than 1,000 VIPs and members of the public welcomed the city's win.

Fireworks and streamers shot into the air at the Old Fruitmarket where a 1,200-strong crowd listened to the decision broadcast live from Sri Lanka.

Politicians, athletes and schoolchildren hugged and clapped when the verdict was announced.

The words "We did it" appeared on the screen and the hall was filled by The Proclaimers' song 500 Miles and another Scots anthem, Chelsea Dagger by the Fratellis.

When the cheers had died down sports presenter and compere Dougie Donnelly welcomed Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on to the stage.

She told the crowd: "I love Glasgow.

"It's absolutely brilliant.

"A big well done to all our girls and guys in Sri Lanka.

"This is absolutely fantastic for Glasgow and all of Scotland."

At a leisure centre in the east end of Glasgow, thousands of jubilant schoolchildren jumped from their seats as the result was announced on a big screen.

About 2,000 youngsters from local primary and high schools packed into the Tollcross Leisure Centre, where swimming events will be held at the Games.

The main hall erupted as the news came over from Sri Lanka and the youngsters got to their feet cheering and waving flags.

About 20 swimmers in the main pool splashed around with delight.

Garry Bruce, manager of Tollcross Leisure Centre, said: "I'm elated, over the moon. I'm really proud of my staff and everything we have done in the build up.

"I'm looking forward to the new additions to the facilities."

The leisure centre will get a new 50m pool and an additional 4,000 seats for spectators.

All swimming events except diving will be held at the centre.

Mr Bruce also predicted the Games would help regenerate Glasgow's deprived east end.

"The house prices are going to start rising in the east end of the city and there will just be more opportunities in general."

Glasgow City Council's George Ryan, executive member for development and regeneration, said: "What an absolutely fantastic day for the city of Glasgow.

"Two-and-a-half years of hard work and now we've delivered.

"All the delegates were very impressed with the current facilities and just the vibrancy of the city.

"The people of Glasgow have obviously won them over. They were the real X Factor in this."

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