IT will return to Scotland this year to herald the start of the Commonwealth Games, but only after it has completed its journey around the world.
The Queen's Baton has arrived in Africa after completing an epic relay around the countries of the South Pacific.
Trumpets, drums and whistles heralded the arrival of the sceptre when it reached Ghana on Sunday, on the 88th day of its precession round the globe, with the country's Vice President Kwesi Amissah Arthur setting in motion its trip through the capital city of Accra.
The baton visited much of the city, with crowds turning out to show a true Ghanaian "akwaaba" (welcome) as it journeyed through the various districts.
On the way it was presented to local tribal Queen Nana Ofei Boadu I, at a "durbar" meeting in Adome in the Volta region of the country.
Another elder who got his hands on the baton in the relay was local tribal Paramount Chief Odenoho Kwafo Akoto III, before it was carried on to be presented to Chief Togbuie Afede XIV at his Palace,
During a later stop it was then transferred to Chief Awomefia at the Awomefia Shrine, before the convoy arrived at the forecourt of the Parliament House where the Hon Ebo Barton Odro, speaking on behalf of the Rt Hon Edward Doe Adjaho, speaker of the Parliament, gave a short speech of thanks for the day's relay activities.
He said: "Those who have taken part in the relay are indeed a reflection of all that is best in our society.
"There are some who have achieved great things in the sporting fields and other areas of life.
"There are others who have contributed to their communities in numerous ways. I congratulate them all on having been chosen."
The speech ended with him taking "the opportunity to wish the host city of the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, Glasgow, sincerest felicitations from the Parliament of Ghana and a successful event".
Ghana is nation 23 of 70 nations and territories to be visited by the Queen's Baton.
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