First UK School Games launched in Glasgow

The first School Games have been launched in Glasgow in the run up to the 2012 London Olympics.

More than 1,000 children competing in athletics, swimming, gymnastics, table tennis and fencing are taking part in the event.

Sports Minister Patricia Ferguson said: “Many of the Scottish youngsters competing in Glasgow this week will be dreaming of representing their country at the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games and, we hope, the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

“The UK School Games will show that Glasgow and Scotland not only host major events, but put on a show that few, if any, can match.”

The UK School Games is funded by the Millennium Commission, which is providing a National Lottery grant of £1.5m.

The Youth Sport Trust – which works to support the education and development of all young people through sport – is organising both the inaugural UK School Games and the following five city events until 2011. Details: www.scotland.gov.uk