Birmingham was announced as host on 21 December 2017. The Games mark England’s third time hosting the Commonwealth Games after London 1934 and Manchester 2002, and the 7th Games held in the United Kingdom, with previous events in Wales and Scotland: Cardiff 1958, Edinburgh 1970 and 1986 and Glasgow 2014.

With 72 participating nations and over 1.3 million ticket sales. It was also the first to have more events for women than men and the first integrated event, with the para competition held at the same time. Alongside the Games, a cultural festival was held across the West Midlands, as well as a number of trade events. An Esports event was also held.

In celebration some of our fellow OCSC staff in our Birmingham office took the opportunity to explore the city this afternoon in preparation for the exciting opening ceremony tonight and the exciting days ahead. We would like to wish all the athletes who are participating the very best of luck.