It may seem a long way off.

But Glasgow's show of the century is nearer than we think.

This time next year we will all - touch wood - hopefully be basking in the afterglow of a hugely successful Commonwealth Games.

Or we could be kicking ourselves for missing one of the biggest parties ever to come to Glasgow.

Tickets for the Commonwealth Games went on sale yesterday.

Demand was huge - the website crashing under the weight of those wanting to see big competitions like the 100m.

But there will be more than just the opening ceremony and big glamour sports to see.

Events like the rugby sevens, the lawn bowls and the mountain biking will be just as exciting as the big ticket athletics. Book them.

The Games will bring a buzz not seen since the Glasgow International Exhibition of 1901.

The legacy from that: Kelvingrove Art Gallery.

Glasgow hasn't really been at the centre of so much international attention since.

There won't be another such opportunity again any time soon.

For most of us, the Games offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of something truly international.

Remember London and the fantastic party atmosphere of the Olympics? Book yourself a bit of that. You'll not regret it.