POPE Francis' humility and his strong background of supporting social justice have been welcomed by Glaswegians.

As people were arriving at the city's St Andrew's Cathedral yesterday, some hailed the "humble" man, while others hope he will move the church forward.

Stella Watson, 69, from King's Park:

"It's still quite early to say, but given that he has chosen Francis as his name, I am sure he is what we need.

"St Francis always believed that the poor and under privileged came first and I am delighted the Pope has chosen this name.

"It's a big undertaking, but the right appointment has been made."

Margaret Cowan, 55, from Cardonald:

"I think Pope Francis is wonderful, he seems to be an ordinary man who is very in touch with the people.

"Benedict did so much much good work, but he was tired and it was the right time for him to go.

"This definitely marks a new phase for the church and that is what we need."

Jean Magollian(CORR), 74, from Sandyhills:

"I'm really overjoyed at the appointment of Pope Francis.

"He is definitely the right man for the job.

"He used to take the bus, lived in a small flat and cooked his own food - he is a man of the people.

"Pope Francis is definitely who we need."

Ann O'Hara, 76, from Giffnock:

"Pope Francis comes across as very humble man and that's what the church needs.

"I did think they would choose a younger man, but he seems very alert.

"We don't know that much about him, but so far, so good."

Francis Reilly, 62, from Uddingston:

"I'm delighted about the new Pope. Doubly so, in fact, because he shares my name.

"Obviously, I think he's made a fantastic choice with the name.

"He seems to be quite an unknown man, so only time will tell.

"He also wasn't one of the main contenders, but I'm still hopeful he is the right man for the job."

Ian Turbitt, 67, from Glasgow:

"I'm not a Catholic, but I hope this Pope can help bring more unity between the churches.

Although I don't know much about him, I've heard he is quite conservative.

"But I'm still hopeful he can unite the denominations."

Catherine Docherty, 70, from Hamilton:

"I'm very happy that we have a new Pope.

"His name choice was a big surprise, but I think his name represents the kind of person he is."

Evelyn Sexton, from Newlands:

"I'm absolutely delighted about the new Pope.

"It is a lovely choice of name, it shows he is very humble.

"He is definitely the right man for the job."

Nick Stewart, 63, from Glasgow, said:

"It's great we have a new pope.

"He seems to have come from working class roots and is very humble, he seems great.

"The stories about him riding the bus back home, living in a small flat and cooking his own food are all very encouraging.

"Although, I'm sure that will all stop now. Pope Francis also seems to have a lot of empathy with the poor.

"It's great that he is from Argentina, but also comes from Italian heritage. That way, he will appeal to everyone."