The Glasgow 2014 Organising Committee (OC) unveiled a new Glasgow star… the official Mascot for the Commonwealth Games.

Clyde, the patriotic and adventurous thistle who will be the friendly face of the Games, made a dramatic entrance as he was unveiled to the world at BBC Scotland’s HQ in Glasgow – located appropriately on the banks on the world-famous river that inspired his name.

He was welcomed on stage by Olympic swimming stars Rebecca Adlington and Michael Jamieson. Along with 150 school pupils from across the city they heard for the first time Clyde’s magical story – as told by actor, comedian and Glasgow 2014 Ambassador Billy Connolly, who narrated an animated film which premiered at the launch.

This was also an extraordinary day for Clyde’s creator, 12-year-old Beth Gilmour from Cumbernauld. Beth won a UK-wide competition, from over 4000 entries, to design the Glasgow 2014 Mascot. On top of her art and design talents, she swims for Cumbernauld Swimming Club, and was delighted to join her swimming heroes on stage at the launch event.

The OC joined forces with the BBC in October last year to run the children’s competition, which was launched as part of the 1000 days to go milestone, with the help of CBBC’s Blue Peter and BBC Radio Scotland’s Fred MacAulay & Co Show.

Beth, who won four tickets to the Glasgow 2014 Opening Ceremony as part of her prize, said:

“I still can’t believe that my entry is now the Glasgow 2014 mascot – it’s amazing to see Clyde come to life and I’m so happy that my design and idea will now be seen by everyone across the world.

“To know that I have played a part in Glasgow 2014 is incredible and I hope everyone across Scotland and the Commonwealth love Clyde as much as I do!”