Young people who volunteered at the Commonwealth games will be eligible to access a £2.4 million employability programme

The Scotland’s Best initiative is designed to get 1,000 jobless young Scots into work and it will be opened up to Clydesiders who volunteered at the Games.

The volunteering and training programme is part of the £5m Young Persons’ Legacy Fund which was announced in 2012, to give up to 2,500 young people the opportunity to gain employment and experience in the major events Scotland will host in the years to come.

Scotland’s Best sees participants achieve a Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) level 4 qualification to aid their entry into work.

I’ve met hundreds of volunteers over last eleven days and they have been the unsung heroes - First Minister Alex Salmond

First Minister Alex Salmond said: “The Clydesiders have been one of the biggest successes of the Commonwealth Games and we should take the utmost pride in the part they have played.

“They have taken to their roles with ease and have exemplified the wonderful, welcoming nature that Scotland is famed for – helping to make this the friendly games.

“I’ve met hundreds of volunteers over last eleven days and they have been the unsung heroes.

“Of course most of the focus has been placed on the top class athletes and the sporting spectacle of the Games, but the Clydesiders have underpinned all of this.

“The Clydesiders were made up of people from all ages and backgrounds, and we want to make sure that they can build on the great experience they’ve had and continue their own development.

“By opening up the Scotland’s Best programme to young Clydesiders, we are offering these young people a terrific opportunity to gain vital skills, experience and qualifications that will better equip them for life in the workplace. This is a true Games legacy.”