By VIVIENNE NICOLL

A NEW scheme has been launched to encourage more people to get involved in sport and physical activity.

The 2014 Commonwealth Games resulted in a substantial increase in people of all ages getting more active.

It is hoped the 2018 European Championships will have the same result and as a result a new framework has been launched to create more opportunities to take up sport.

The framework has been developed in partnership with groups and organisations both nationally and in the city.

It highlights the need to build on what is already happening in Glasgow and take advantage of the momentum from high profile sports events such as the European Championships.

Glasgow Life chairman David McDonald said: "Next year our city will play host to more than 3000 of the best athletes in the world as we welcome the inaugural European Championships to Scotland.

"This will be the biggest event held in Scotland since the 2014 Commonwealth Games and our goal is to ensure the championships leave behind a lasting legacy for Glasgow.

"Our city is one of the top five sporting cities in the world and is well known for our ability to host and produce hugely successful large-scale sporting events.

"However, the real success of these events isn't measured by spectators or visitors to the city - the real success is in how many local citizens are inspired by elite athletes and are motivated to get fit or keep active whether that is in one of our world-class sporting facilities or by making the most of Glasgow's beautiful outdoor spaces.

"In the years that followed Glasgow's Commonwealth Games we have seen a high rise in sports participation in our city."

He pointed out almost 10,000 new members had joined the Glasgow Club since 2014 and there is more school involvement in gymnastics, athletics, dance and cycling sessions at the velodrome.

Mr McDonald said: "This week in the Emirates Arena hundreds of school pupils will pick up rackets to try out badminton and watch some of the action at the Scottish Open Grand Prix.

"Events encourage young people to try out new activities and help us cultivate the next generation of great Scottish athletes.

"However, we are not blind to the fact more work can be done. The significant progress which has been made in supporting a growth in sport and physical activity still leaves many challenges.

"By working together with our partners, I am confident we can continue to build our city's success story into 2018 and beyond and create a legacy of which we can be proud."