The 28-year-old from Greenock, who has starred in a number of high profile dramas including Sweet Sixteen and Monarch of the Glen, takes on the starring role after today being unveiled by Glasgow 2014 as the fourth official Games Ambassador where he joins cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, swimmer Rebecca Adlington and comedian Billy Connolly.

The 40-second advert called "Support is our Sport" was filmed throughout the city of Glasgow and marks the start of a nationwide campaign to increase awareness of the Commonwealth Games across Scotland.

"I'm delighted to be involved in the advert and even more so to be pushing the message that it's Glasgow's turn next," said Compston, who was formerly a professional footballer for Greenock Morton FC.

"London 2012 gave the whole country a lift and I'm in no doubt that Glasgow 2014 will have the same positive impact – we know how to put on a show and we know how to welcome people.

"You might have the opportunity to see Usain Bolt running at Hampden or maybe see Sir Chris Hoy competing in the Velodrome with his name on it.

"I think the people of Scotland understand and will recognise that this is a very special time and very special thing to be involved in."

Martin Compston shot to fame after starring as working class Scottish teenager Liam in Ken Loach's Sweet Sixteen

In his role as a Glasgow 2014 Ambassador, Compston will promote the Commonwealth Games and help ensure as many people as possible make the most of Scotland's largest ever sporting and cultural event.

His first outing in the advert will be the biggest promotional push by Glasgow 2014 to date.

The advert was developed by The Leith Agency, produced by The Gate Films and directed by Guy Soulsby, whose previous work includes commercials for Nike and Manchester United.

"We wanted the first-ever Glasgow 2014 television commercial to promote the Commonwealth Games as the next global sporting spectacular, but do so in an accessible, down-to-earth way that makes everyone in Scotland begin to appreciate that the Games are for them," said Glasgow 2014 director of communications and marketing Gordon Arthur.

"Martin Compston was the ideal choice to introduce the Games and celebrate Scotland as a nation of passionate supporters."

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