THE Duke of Wellington got a sprucing up ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

Council workmen used a cherry-picker to remove the famous Royal Exchange Square statue's cone while it was filmed for this summer's sporting spectacular.

The trademark traffic cone, which has been a feature of the statue since the mid 1980s, was returned to its position by the workmen after filming was finished

A council spokesman confirmed the footage was being recorded to be included part of the opening ceremony for the sporting event, which will take place on July 23.

More than 3000 city residents and sports enthusiasts are expected to join in the ceremony at Celtic Park as cast members.

They will be put through their paces ahead of the event by taking part in intense choreography sessions, acting classes and workout routines.