Visit from games mascot given seal of approval

The Highlands have been given the seal of approval after the Glasgow 2018 European Championships official mascot visited the North’s’ most iconic spots.

Bonnie the seal is travelling around Scotland to celebrate young people and sport, and get sports fans geared up for the 11 day sporting event being held for the first time in Glasgow this summer.

Pupils from St Joseph’s, Bishop Eden and Dalneigh primary schools in Inverness met with the mascot before visiting the Highland Swim Team at Inverness Leisure Centre and gymnasts at Inverness Gymnastics Club.

G l a s g o w 2 0 1 8 Championships Director, Colin Hartley, said: “Our mascot Bonnie received a warm welcome on her trip to the Highlands and is a much-loved face across Scotland. Her playful character embodies the spirit of the Championships and is ideally suited to encourage children to try new activities and sports.

“With one million residents, visitors, spectators, athletes and media set to be part of the sporting and cultural experience at Glasgow

“Celebrate young people and sport, and get sports fans geared up”

2018, there is something for everybody to enjoy and we look forward to welcoming visitors from around Scotland.”

This event will be the biggest the city has hosted since the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The championships – being held between August 2 and 12 - will bring together a range of sports including, Aquatics, Cycling, Golf, Gymnastics, Rowing and Triathlon.