ACROSS Glasgow people have been enjoying the 2012 Olympic Games, and little can beat the sense of pride felt when young Glaswegian Michael Jamieson smashed the British record for the 200m breaststroke and secured a glittering silver medal.

The Games have been a great boost to London, bringing many visitors from across the globe to marvel at the spectacle of the opening ceremony – regardless of how barmy it was at bits – and watch talented athletes win medals and break records.

Scots have been instrumental in the success of Team GB so far, with Heather Stanning, Katherine Grainger, Michael Jamieson and Tim Baillie contributing to the medal haul.

Here in the city, the hype surrounding the Olympic Games makes us look ahead to the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and I am sure that Michael will become a poster boy for the Games and no doubt help lead Team Scotland to glory.

I have met with representatives from Glasgow 2014 on a number of occasions, and their central goal is to provide a tangible legacy for the whole of the city post-Games.

Unless that legacy and benefit is clear, the Commonwealth Games may not attract the support from the city they most definitely deserve and need.

There are some parts of Glasgow which need significant regeneration, and it is vital that all communities feel the effect of the Games and are involved in the legacy, particularly our young people.

The 2014 Games will allow Glaswegians both young and old to engage with sport, and ignite people's enthusiasm for all things active – from aquatics to lawn bowls.

We can also show our city off to the world and allow people to experience first-hand the warm, friendly welcome we are world-famous for.

Although the spotlight will inevitably be on the athletes during the 2014 Games, nothing would go ahead if it wasn't for the huge numbers of volunteers being recruited. Glasgow 2014 estimate that they need around 15,000 volunteers to help the event run smoothly and safely.

This is an exciting opportunity for young people to be part of something truly historic in their city, an event they will talk about for the rest of their lives.

Glasgow, more than any other city, has what it takes to make the Commonwealth Games in 2014 a memorable event that will leave us with a lasting legacy for generations to come – it is important we don't waste the opportunity.