Meet Clyde – the games mascot dreamed up by a magical Lenzie lass
HE’S cheeky, he’s got spiky hair and he’s a thistle – meet the official mascot of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games . . . designed by a talented 12-year-old.
Lenzie Academy first-year pupil Beth Gilmour’s mascot – a thistle called Clyde – was selected from more that 4,000 entries from children across Britain for the honour.
Beth was guest of honour as Clyde was introduced to an audience of stars at BBC Scotland’s headquarters, on the banks of the river that inspired the mascot’s name, last Thursday. He was welcomed on stage by Olympic swimming stars Rebecca Adlington and Michael Jamieson – from Robroyston – while comedian Billy Connolly narrated Clyde’s story.
Beth, who swims for Cumbernauld Swimming Club, said: “I still can’t believe that my entry is now the Glasgow 2014 mascot – it’s amazing to see Clyde come to life and I’m so happy that my design and idea will now be seen by everyone across the world.
“To know that I have played a part in Glasgow 2014 is incredible and I hope everyone across Scotland and the Commonwealth love Clyde as much as I do.”
Clyde, who was chosen by judges for his “Scottish symbolism and Glaswegian charm and likeability” will now set off on a national tour of Scotland and will continue to play a role right up until the games themselves in two years time.
Olympic medallist Michael Jamieson, who used to swim for the Scotia Club in Bishopbriggs, congratulated Beth on her success and said: “Clyde is great fun and the perfect mascot to spread the Glasgow 2014 message across Scotland, the UK and the Commonwealth.
“He’s a true Glaswegian and you can’t help but smile when you’re in his company – I’m sure everyone who meets Clyde will feel the same.”
Billy Connolly added: “Clyde’s a great wee thistle and it’s a very, very good idea and a fantastic design by Beth.
“The thistle is the perfect choice and has a great history and meaning in Scotland, plus Clyde’s got a smashing haircut that makes him very modern and gives him a lovely edge.”
Strathkelvin and Bearsden MSP Fiona McLeod said: “I am so excited the logo for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games came from Lenzie Academy pupil Beth Gilmour. Her design shows great imagination while being clearly Scottish and Glaswegian.”
Lenzie and Kirkintilloch South councillor Gillian Renwick added: “Beth’s design is fun and energetic – she has captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games in her design.
“She must be so pleased at having her design selected for such an honour. It’s great that a Lenzie pupil has won this distinction and I hope she enjoys her opening ceremony tickets when it comes along.”
* Have you got a comment? E-mail kirkyherald@jnscotland.co.uk
Alternatively you can call the newsdesk 0141 775 0040, find us on Facebook or visit us on Twitter
Or you can log in below and have you say on the site. Please note comments may be reprinted in the newspaper.
Email to a friend
Print this page- Calls for public inquiry over town centre plans
- Fed-up drivers say it’s time to take firm action on potholes in East Dunbartonshire
- Tickets for top music festival up for grabs in hall fundraiser
- Gas works will mean busy Bishopbriggs road is shut for nearly two months
- School memorial library set to be a fitting tribute to tireless councillor
- Osteoporosis drug and heart risk
- Lenzie lift the cup ... and urge people to support the club!
- Lenzie Post Office proposed move will deliver longer opening hours
- Model Springburn schoolgirl Amy set to take to the stage for Miss Scotland Perfect pageant
- Alleged Kirkintilloch town centre shoplifters collared by police
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Kirkintilloch
Friday 24 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 4 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 6 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South west
