It has already been in Malaysia and Musselburgh, and now Motherwell has had its turn.

To the ear-splitting roar of 950 North Lanarkshire primary school children, the Queen's Baton romped into the main hall of the cavernous Ravenscraig Regional Sports Centre, held aloft in the firm grip of Newarthill boxer Charles Flynn.

The 20-year-old, part of the Team Scotland Squad, said: "To think of all the nations this Baton's been in before it came here is amazing, and makes you feel you're part of one big family."

Earlier in the day, the baton had begun its journey through North Lanarkshire, travelling from Stepps to a triathlon around Strathclyde Loch, where TV presenter Carol Smillie picked up the baton from former middle- distance runner Tom McKean.

People leaned out of windows or cheered from balconies as the Baton passed by, and dogs were literally barking in the street.

In Airdrie, the mother, aunt and uncle of baton bearer Laura Miller, 31, were waiting in anticipation for her appearance in Queen Victoria Street.

When she strode down the hill, their home-made banner was raised along with their voices.

Her mum, June, said: "Laura was a 19-year-old student when she was struck down with meningitis and spent two weeks in intensive care.

"Thankfully she came through it. Even though her hearing has been affected she has devoted her spare time to raising money for charity by doing 5K, 10K, half-marathons, the Kilt Walk and the even the Manchester Marathon to help others.

"We are so proud - seeing her carrying the Baton is the icing on the cake."

Meanwhile, the online ballot to apply to join the parties at Glasgow's Queens Baton Relay's three Finish Line Celebration Events closed yesterday.

All three events were more than two times over-subscribed.

More than 5000 tickets for each of the three events will be allocated to those who applied.

Everyone attending the three Finish Line Celebration Events - at Springburn Park, Victoria Park and the Queen's Park Recreation Ground - will be treated to sports, arts and dance activities along with entertainment, including dance performances and a music programme headlined by the group Salsa Celtica.

catriona.stewart@ eveningtimes.co.uk