BUS giant First has become the latest organisation to join the list of Commonwealth Games sponsors.

First Bus, part of Aberdeen-based FirstGroup, is the largest bus operator in Scotland.

Planning of bus services for the Games has taken more than two years and will result in regular services across the city being supplemented by spectator shuttle services linking Games venues around the city centre.

The operator will also provide transport for athletes, technical officials and the media.

The company plans to publish details of its transport arrangements in the coming weeks.

First has 950 buses across Greater Glasgow but will use additional buses during the Games to transport the large number of spectators.

Glasgow 2014 chief executive David Grevemberg said: "This summer's Commonwealth Games will see around 6500 athletes and officials come to Glasgow for 11 days of competition which will put Glasgow and Scotland on the world stage.

"First's services will be crucial in helping them move around the city.

"First will also provide additional bus services to help the thousands of extra people expected at Games time, including spectators, visitors and local people enjoying the fantastic action at our venues or those looking to soak up the atmosphere around Glasgow and beyond."

Giles Fearnley, managing director of First Bus, said: "Glasgow 2014 promises to be one of the most important and spectacular sporting events ever hosted in the UK.

"First Bus is proud of the services we provide to customers across our Scottish operations and to play an integral role in the success of the Games.

"Our preparations are nearing completion and we are very much looking forward to the start of Glasgow 2014."

Commonwealth Games Minister Shona Robison said: I would encourage people who are coming to watch the Games to take advantage of public transport in Glasgow as much as possible as it will be the quickest, easiest and most efficient way to get around.

"Transport within the city boundaries is included in the price of Games tickets to it won't cost spectators anything extra to travel across Glasgow."

vivienne.nicoll@eveningtimes.co.uk