Glasgow's Commonwealth Games got under way with a memorable tribute to all things Scottish, with Rod Stewart performing the soundtrack and Billy Connolly providing the inspirational words.
In a spectacular show that featured pipes, drums and the words of Robert Burns, British athletes competing for England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey received a warm and spectacular welcome at Celtic Park.
Two London 2012 Olympians led in their respective nations, rhythmic gymnast Fran Jones brought in the Welsh team while Euan Burton received the biggest welcome as the Scottish flag bearer.
"When we were standing in the tunnel outside I turned round and shouted 'are you ready Scotland?' The reception I got was incredible," said Burton.
"When we went in the noise was indescribable and every time we hit a corner it just went up again. If the rest of the Games, is like this it's going to be something special"
Great Britain's most successful Olympian, Sir Chris Hoy, was the final baton bearer, delivering the opening message to The Queen, a culmination of a 100,000 mile journey she started at Buckingham Palace 288 days ago.
In the days ahead many of those who starred at London's Games just two years ago will seek another moment in the home spotlight.
Alistair Brownlee will look to win the triathlon title on Thursday while Olympic silver medallist Michael Jamieson is confident of upgrading that medal in the 200m breaststroke.
And Olympic gold medallists Nicola Adams, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Laura Trott and Mo Farah are just some of the others in action in 11 days of competition that will feature 4,883 athletes competing across 17 sports.
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