UNEMPLOYED young people in Glasgow's East End could strike gold as a result of the Commonwealth Games.

They are being offered a springboard into employment by working at the Glasgow Fort shopping park during the sports extravaganza.

The scheme is a training project which offers theory and work experience to 32 young people from school leavers to 24-year-olds.

It got under way this week after the Fort owners British Land backed the scheme with a £20,000 donation to Jobs and Business Glasgow.

Agency chairman Bailie Jonathan Findlay said: "This pilot programme builds upon the buzz this summer will bring to the city.

"It offers a significant and tangible benefit to local young people who are work ready but simply need an opportunity to help them take that next step into employment, education or training."

Fort manager Phil Goodman said: "This is a very exciting summer in Glasgow, particularly in the East End.

"It represents a fantastic opportunity to deliver a real legacy for young unemployed people in the local area."

He is hoping the project will help secure employment for those taking part.

gordon.thomson@ eveningtimes.co.uk