Commonwealth Games mascot Clyde to drop by

Children from across Shetland are in for a sporting surprise on Saturday when the official mascot of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games drops by the Clickimin Leisure Centre as part of his nationwide tour of Scotland.

Betraying his Glasgow roots, Clyde is described as a “gallus wee thistle whose cheeky attitude and friendly personality is sure to be a hit with everyone he meets”. He’s hugely patriotic, mad about sport and loves an audience, according to the games organisers.

During the visit to the opening event of Shetland Sports Week, Clyde will cheer on sportspeople as they take part in an array of fun activities inspired by the Commonwealth Games.

Afterwards, say the organisers, he’ll show off his own athletic ambitions and can-do attitude as he spreads the word about some of the 17 sports which will be showcased at the games in less than two years’ time. He’ll also pose for pictures and hand out exclusive Glasgow 2014 goodies.

Glasgow 2014 chief executive David Grevemberg said: “Clyde is bursting with pride that his hometown of Glasgow is hosting the Commonwealth Games in less than two years’ time. He just can’t wait to share his excitement and make new young friends all over Scotland.”

Shetland Sports Week’s opening event is being staged as part of Games for Scotland – an exciting calendar of events designed to inspire, motivate, engage and stimulate pride in the people of Scotland in the build-up to Glasgow 2014 and beyond.

Mr Grevemberg added: “Scotland will see the benefits of Glasgow hosting the Commonwealth Games for generations to come, but it’s already making an impact as we count down less than two years to go.

“Through programmes like Games for Scotland, our young people are being inspired and motivated through sport and their excitement is palpable. I’m positive Clyde will have a great time in Shetland as he helps encourage the terrific appetite for sport that exists among the next generation of Scots.”

Clyde is appearing at over 20 Games for Scotland events right across the nation, from Dumfries to Orkney, between now and the end of November to help bring the excitement of Glasgow 2014 to Scotland’s young people and encourage them to get involved in sport.