Chris Hoy

Gruff-voiced comedian Billy Connolly is to be an ambassador for the 2014 Commonwealth games, reports The Press Association. The games will be held in his hometown of Glasgow.

Connolly will work alongside Olympic cycling hero Sir Chris Hoy and swimmer Rebecca Adlington in the role, whilst organisers prepare to unveil the official Games mascot on Thursday. "I know that the people of Glasgow will enjoy the Games immensely, the whole of Scotland will. We are a nation that welcomes all visitors with a smiling face. The goodwill of Scots will stand forever, we will always have that," explained the comedian, who thinks the key to the games is involving the youth. "Without the youth of today creating a momentum behind an event, nothing is taken forward. By engaging with children in the design of the mascot, a buzz has been created. You can feel the excitement for the Games already."

An event such as these takes thousands of volunteers to make it a viable success, 15,000 to specific. But the Glaswegian funny-man is confident that the public will step up – like they did for the London 2012 Olympic Games – to make another memorable sporting event happen for Great Britain. "We love taking part in everything and for something as big as the Commonwealth Games, people will be coming out in their droves to spectate and volunteer. Without question, Glasgow 2014 will be a huge success."