Fittingly, Scotland's greatest track cyclist was the first to perform in the arena which bears his name -and he gave it a firm thumbs up.

Sir Chris Hoy said: "It was very smooth – a very quick track – it's a lovely environment for training."

The six-time Olympic gold medallist and 11-time world champion appeared at the East End venue for an exclusive media launch, ahead of the official opening on Friday.

All eyes were trained on Chris as he did a celebratory lap, testing out the track for the first time.

He said it was a "huge honour" to have his name on Scotland's first and only indoor velodrome.

Sir Chris, 36, said: "It was a huge surprise when I heard about it in the first place and you get used to people talking about it - then when you come here and see the stands, that's when it hits home.

"I am very proud to think that we have a facility and to have something like this now.

"It is a world-class facility and it is amazing to be here and see it."

The light shone through huge windows on to seats awaiting spectators at the Scottish Track Cycling Championships later this month, the first event scheduled at the venue. Sir Chris will attend the event but will not compete.

The ceiling soared high above the pale wooden boards that complete a 250-metre circuit in the 2500 capacity velodrome.

From Saturday, the public can try the sport and book lessons at the track and who knows, a new Sir Chris-like hero could be among them.

Sir Chris said the venue would have a big impact locally with schools and local cycle clubs keen to have a go there.

The Olympian concluded: "It is exciting to see this and imagine what it will be like when it is full."