The Games may be centred on London, but Glasgow is also a host centre with football at Hampden, so the city is playing a key part in the event.

Those taking part in the relay, chosen for a variety of reasons, will have an experience they will remember forever, and hopefully the people in their communities will turn out to cheer them on.

The relay is a spectacle which will increase the interest in the 2012 Olympics, but also offers a little glimpse of what will be coming to Glasgow in two years time, when the city hosts the Commonwealth Games.

The whole city by then should be right behind the event and help to make sure it is as big a success as possible and the city benefits during and after.

The Olympic Torch Relay is a reminder that the Games is not only about the big names, but about sport at the community level and encouraging participation in any capacity.

Today is the first day of Glasgow's walk on part in what will ultimately be London's show.

In two years time, though, with all the preparations still on time and on budget Glasgow will be the star standing centre stage.