East Ren bears the baton in style

Commonwealth fever has taken hold as East Renfrewshire prepares for the Queen’s Baton Relay arriving on July 16.
By Gillian Loney
Published 3rd Jul 2014, 17:00 BST
Active Schools co-ordinator and batonbearer Marie Baxter joins Robslee Primary pupils in donning their Baton Relay wristbandsActive Schools co-ordinator and batonbearer Marie Baxter joins Robslee Primary pupils in donning their Baton Relay wristbands
Active Schools co-ordinator and batonbearer Marie Baxter joins Robslee Primary pupils in donning their Baton Relay wristbands

Local BID (Business Improvement District) teams I Love Clarkston and Giffnock Village have joined forces for a big Baton event, taking place on the day of the relay.

The Big Lottery-funded fun day will welcome the baton into Clarkston just before 1pm, with the batonbearers taking it from Sheddens roundabout to Clarkston Toll before stopping at the family event for 15 minutes.

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A BID representative told The Extra: “We are building cycle timber trails, cording ropes for a tug of war, buying wellingtons for wellie-throwing competitions, getting prizes for winners and, most importantly, inviting all to join us on this summer day, to make it exceptional.”

The baton will stop at every town in East Ren before heading for an evening celebration at Cowan Park, Barrhead.

Councillor Mary Montague, East Ren convener for community services and safety, said: “We want as many people as possible to come out in force to line the streets, enjoy this historic event, see the baton and cheer on our batonbearers.”

The evening event, running 5-7.30pm, is free and suitable for all ages — wristbands are required for entry, and can be picked up at libraries, as well as council offices (up to four per person).

The baton will reach Glasgow’s southside by July 22, marking the end of the relay and the beginning of the Commonwealth Games.

Related topics:BIDBusiness Improvement District