As athletes of the Glasgow 2018 European Championships head for home, host areas reflect on the “great boost” of the sporting event.

Scotstoun hosted synchronised swimming events while Knightswood was home to the BMX competition.

Russia topped the overall medal table, closely followed by Great Britain and Italy in third.

Local councillors have praised the role of the community in the success.

Councillor Michael Cullen said: “Our community played a crucial role in achieving these games, with the creation of a world class BMX facility which has already seen spectacular community benefits to the installation of the temporary synchronised swimming pool – we were a big part of these games.

“I am proud to have seen so many local community groups enjoying the tickets provided to them, hopefully these games will have inspired some of our local community that they will be our next medal winners.”

The five-day swimming competition was held in the converted tennis centre of Scotstoun Sports Campus, where a temporary pool was specially constructed and where Russia won eight of nine gold medals.

Lesley Watson, an events management student from Airdrie, had the opportunity to work as a sports presentation assistant at the swimming event.

This involves carrying out behind the scenes roles such as preparing sport specific information and ensuring things run on time.

She said: “I worked with a fabulous team who worked really hard to get the job done, but we also had a laugh which made busy days a little more chilled out.

“The volunteers and spectators add so much energy to the event, it’s just a good environment to work in.

“I got to watch and enjoy routines and they were all absolutely outstanding - it amazes me what the athletes can do.

“I think the championships have been fantastic for Glasgow. It gives people the chance to get out and see the sports stars and feel a bit more in touch with competitive sport as it’s here on their doorstep.”

“It also motivates younger generations to get participating too - that’s a huge bonus.”

Great Britain’s Kyle Evans and Kye Whyte won the men’s gold and silver at the BMX games in Knightswood.

The new centre was the only permanent venue constructed for use at Glasgow 2018 and will be Scotland’s only world and Olympic standard BMX track.

Councillor Paul Carey said: “I think the events were a great thing for the city. It has promoted Glasgow not only around Europe but the world.

“However, I struggle to think what kind of benefits my ward would have in the long term as a legacy of these games.

“I am sure the BMX track will be a major success in the mid to long term particularly for people who come out with the ward to use it. I hope there will be plans in place to encourage young people from my ward and the city as a whole to do the same.”

Councillor Chris Cunningham who attended the BMX racing described the two-day event as a “huge success” and the Glasgow 2018 European Championships a “huge credit to the city”.

Organisers showed their appreciation on Twitter by thanking everyone involved.

They said: “Thank you to the athletes, the volunteers, the fans, the broadcasters, the venues and everyone who helped to make #EC2018 a success. We hope you’ve enjoyed it all as much as we have #TheMoment”