A GROUP of Commonwealth Games trainees are on the starting line for a bright new future.

Nine Glasgow school leavers and 17 graduates who were struggling to get their first break have been at the heart of organising the massive sporting event.

And with just days to the Opening Ceremony they say the experience and skills they have gained mean their careers are off to a flying start.

Glasgow 2014 head of human resources Jan Scott said: "For our apprentices and graduates, working at Glasgow 2014 was their first real job and they have all really grasped the opportunity.

"They are unrecognisable now from when they first arrived. They have all really proved themselves."

City council leader Gordon Matheson said the Games had transformed the city.

Marketing apprentice Rebecca Grant, 18, from Cardonald, said: "I was working in a tanning salon when I learned about the Modern Apprenticeship opportunities at Glasgow 2014.

"When I arrived I had just turned 17 and was nervous and shy but I've learned loads."

Engagement and legacy apprentice Arjan Singh, 18, from Shawlands, said: "Working at the Games has been an amazing opportunity for me.

"I've learned so many new skills.

"I'm a lot more mature and smarter than when I started."

Games services apprentice Patrick Creaney, 19, from Easterhouse, said: "I would never have imagined two years ago I'd know my way round spreadsheets or be meeting volunteers and co-ordinating their shifts.

"I left school and was hoping to get a job as a labourer or a roadworker.

"Now I'm working in the catering, cleaning and waste team helping look after arrangements for the Athletes' Village."

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk