Commonwealth Games baton relay begins Scottish leg in Glasgow

Team Scotland swimmer Duncan Scott brought the baton to the banks of the River Clyde and was greeted by Glasgow's Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren and Scotland's First Minister John Swinney [PA Media]The King's baton relay has begun its final leg in Scotland ahead of the Commonwealth Games opening later this month.Traditionally the relay would involve a single baton being transported through all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories - but this year, each team competing was given its own baton to decorate.Team Scotland's was designed by woodcarving artist Annie Graham and will travel from the Team Scotland camp in Glasgow to more than 50 events across the country.

First Minister John Swinney said the Games, which begin on 23 July, would "showcase Scotland's love of sport to the world".The baton relay is the 18th official Commonwealth Games relay and acts as a curtain-raiser for the sporting contest.Scotland's baton is made of three interlocking pieces of sustainability sourced ash - a hardwood that grows throughout Scotland.

It was carried by Team Scotland swimmer Duncan Scott who sailed up the River Clyde earlier on a power boat.The 29-year-old, who is Scotland's most decorated Commonwealth Games athlete, was greeted by the first minister and Lord Provost of Glasgow Jacqueline McLaren.Commonwealth Games mascots Clyde and Finnie also joined the celebration.

Clyde (left) and Finnie (right) celebrated with swimmer Duncan Scott [PA Media]Scott said it was a "privilege" to carry the King's Baton in Glasgow, following in the footsteps of his father Nigel who carried the Queen's Baton at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.He said: "I love representing Team GB in British swimming but it's always pretty special to put the Scotland kit on and represent Team Scotland."Scotland's 'global brand'Glasgow was announced as the host of the 2026 Games after the Australian state of Victoria - which had been due to host - withdrew over rising costs.

The deal was secured after the Scottish governm