Just as we were wondering how to fill that World Cup-shaped gap in our lives, along come Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games.

Asides from not having to stay up until 4am to catch all the action, the other bonus of these home games is seeing Glasgow bustling with the arrival of the 3,000 international athletes, their supporters and an army of bright, cheery event volunteers. Hopes are high that our bars, restaurants, hotels and shops will enjoy a summer boost as these visitors look to make the most of their time, not just in Glasgow, but across Scotland.

One notable visitor has been Andy Burnham, who joined the crowd for the opening ceremony last week during his first official visit to Scotland as Prime Minister.

It’s early days of course – we’re a long way off any medals being handed out – but it’s been encouraging to see the positive, pro-business stall Mr Burnham has set out in recent weeks.

Only time and detail will tell whether Burnham's 'Manchesterism' is made of stone

And despite all the early emphasis on better presentation, telling the story, making the nation feel better about itself, and whether or not he wears a tie, the thing that will really matter about........

© Herald Scotland