The Games for Scotland programme, which is delivered by EventScotland on behalf of the Scottish government, is designed to inspire, motivate and engage people in physical activity ahead of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

A series of events is being held across the country, the first of which took place on July 23, exactly three years before the start of Glasgow 2014.

They will continue until October 27, when there will be 1,000 days to go until the opening ceremony of the Games.

"The Games for Scotland programme has provided a fantastic opportunity for people across the country to participate in a number of fascinating events that have celebrated Scotland's culture, heritage and role as host of the 2014 Commonwealth Games," said Grevemberg at Dance Fest, which featured 500 children from across the capital city.

"Innovative and exciting cultural programmes are an essential part of any Commonwealth Games and events like Dance Fest, here in Edinburgh, allow participants the opportunity to enjoy and experience a range of dance and sporting activities.

"As we prepare to celebrate 1,000 days to go until the opening ceremony of Glasgow 2014, on October 27, it's so inspiring to see events like this running across the country, right up until this significant milestone."

Reed, from Edinburgh – who won a silver medal in the women's hammer at the Isle of Man Commonwealth Youth Games last month – said the Games for Scotland programme will play a key role in generating interest in the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

"Having a home Games is going to be huge for Scotland and getting people interested is really important with only 1,000 days to go," she said.

"I've had a taste of it at the Commonwealth Youth Games and that's left me wanting more, so I hope other people will feel the same after today."

Shona Robison, Scotland's Minister for the Commonwealth Games and Sport, added: "It's little more than three years until the start of the Commonwealth Games.

"Now more than ever in the countdown to 2014 it's important we involve local people and communities from across Scotland in the excitement of the Games.

"Hosting the Games is not only about putting on a spectacular sporting extravaganza, but also about leaving a lasting legacy for the people of Scotland.

"The Games for Scotland programme will form a key strand of this and is a perfect platform for bringing the community together.

"I would encourage everyone to come along, have fun and play their part."

Future Games for Scotland events include Active Renfrewshire Gateway to the Games, Count us In (Scottish Borders), Dance Track (Falkirk) and East Dunbartonshire Gym and Dance Fest.

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