BBC Sports Personality of the Year

Times football writer James Ducker: Could have sworn McIlroy won Open, US PGA and was central to Ryder Cup win, as well as being world No. 1 and top of money list. Must be mistaken. Not undermining Hamilton's achievement - winning second world champ very impressive - but McIIroy had an incredible year. Had to win surely.

Thomas Rooney: Rory should have won but you can't argue with a public vote and Lewis has had a supreme year.

Craig Brennan: Wow. Get home to find out Rory didn't win SPOTY. This is ridiculous - F1 was between two people all year. Rory beat 100+ decent players twice in majors.

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Having won karting and F1 titles in a number 44 car, it is the driver's lucky number, and he has the digits tattooed behind his right ear. But perhaps Hamilton should take his bulldog Roscoe with him to races and award ceremonies because the dog stole the show on the red carpet

Gareth Bale: "Congratulations @LewisHamilton @McIlroyRory and @jopavey ! Looked a fantastic night and all deserved winners."

Gary Lineker seems relieved to have made it to the end of the show, given his sore throat. He tweets: "Thank heavens that's over with, congratulations Lewis Hamilton on a spectacular year."

Gail Buckley: I should have put a bet on... my prediction for the top three #SPOTY was correct! Well done to Lewis, Rory and Jo.

Niall Stewart: If Hamilton had won the F1 world championship in February/March/April, would he still get SPOTY? Doubtful.

Bradley Mills: Gary Lineker deserves an award for managing to still be able to talk at the end of that!

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BBC Get Inspired: Look who just walked into our press room! It's only the winner.

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Former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell: "Congrats to women's rugby team. Now that's girls power."

Lewis Hamilton becomes the seventh Formula 1 driver to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. When he won the world title in November, the 29-year-old became Britain's first multiple world F1 champion in 43 years. Jackie Stewart last achieved the feat in 1971 and would win the title for a third and final time in 1973.

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Paralympic athlete Cori Henry: Me and Richard Whitehead saying to Lewis Hamilton "we win together; we lose together"

BBC Sport presenter Mark Pougatch: Hugely surprised by the order of the 1-2 but delighted for Jo Pavey & the women's rugby team.

Seb Patrick: It's worth giving Lewis Hamilton the SPOTY award just to enjoy the outrage from people who think F1 isn't a real sport but golf is.

Ollie Parker: Quality! Lewis Hamilton definitely deserved SPOTY.

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"I'm disappointed for Rory McIlroy. I'm more of a golf fan than F1. What Rory is doing is way and beyond what everyone else is doing. But don't get me wrong Lewis Hamilton is unbelievable."

"I know how Rory feels! Rory will go onto some amazing things though."

"I'm thrilled for Jo. It's a wonderful story. It's a family business. She's the best."

Ticker tape floats down from the roof of the arena and a disbelieving Hamilton looks out towards the audience. Still no sign of Roscoe the bulldog.

"I could not have done this without my amazing team, my family, my dad who once had four jobs to help me, my brother. I've been incredibly inspired by them," continues Hamilton. "I never thought in a million years I'd be surrounded by such people.

"Thank you to all the fans. I always say we win and lose together because I feel your love. I feel so proud to carry the Union flag and hope I will continue to make you proud."

Adrian Bourne: Well done Lewis!

Joe Goldberg: Scandalous. Rory only second.

John Finn: Delighted for Jo Pavey getting third.

"Dude, you had such an amazing year," Hamilton tells second-place Rory McIlroy, who looks forlorn. Maybe the golfer should have brought a bulldog with him.... Lesson learnt for next year.

"I am so speechless," says Lewis Hamilton, before going on to give a speech. "I'm so proud and honoured to be among such great sporting talent. I want to say a huge thank you to all the people who called in, I really wasn't expecting it."

The reigning Formula 1 champion hugs his brother before making his way to the stage, kissing Gabby Logan and Clare Balding on the cheek. A standing ovation for the Mercedes driver before he lifts the trophy aloft.

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Ryder Cup hero and three-time Major winner is second which leaves...

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Super mum Jo Pavey comes third after a fabulous year on the track.

The time has come to learn who has become 2014 BBC Sports Personality of the Year. It will be one of 10, but who has captured the British public's heart the most? Whose name will join the likes of Sebastian Coe, Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Steve Redgrave?

"I became a dad eight weeks ago," Sir Chris Hoy informs the crowd, and the audience cheers wildly. "He was in hospital for eight weeks and finally came out last week and we got him home." More cheers and whistles. Sir Chris Hoy has them in the palm of their hands. "I'm sure he'll be watching it on telly just now."

"I think he's just incredible. His achievements are awesome. He's a great ambassador for Scotland. He had a tartan suit on and he was rocking it. He's the perfect gent, a great guy. He can converse with everyone. He's a great role model."

Tempest Devyne: What? me? Crying at Sir Chris Hoy getting the lifetime achievement award....you betcha

Tom Howells: Yes, Chris Hoy, massively deserved.

Sir Chris Hoy attempts to hold back the tears, but he's failing. Prince Harry presents the Olympian with the Lifetime Achievement award and salty tears appear. "It's very hard not to get emotional when you hear amazing words from people you respect and get this amazing reception," says Hoy, receiving a rousing reception on home turf.

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And let's not forget, Sir Chris stopped the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony from descending into further face by stepping in to help Pricne Imran of Malaysia to open a baton. It's worth watching again. And again. And again.

Picking up medals and trophies is, of course, old hat for new dad Sir Chris, whose wife Sarra Kemp gave birth to a baby boy in October 11 weeks early. Anyway, the Scot retired from competitive cycling in 2013 with six Olympic gold medals.

You may, or may not remember, he was the first British Olympian for 100 years to claim three golds at one Games, at Beijing in 2008.

Has he ever won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award? For sure. In 2008.

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Sir Chris Hoy, Britain's most successful Olympian, will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award, adding his name to a list of winners which includes Sir Steve Redgrave and Seve Ballesteros.

"I think Lewis Hamilton will win. But I want Jo Pavey to win. Wouldn't that be great?"

"McIlroy, Hamilton and Pavey for me."

Violinist Nicola Benedetti plays the Bonnie Banks O'Loch Lomond as we reach a sombre part of the show, remembering those who have died during the year. It's a fitting tribute for those who are no longer with us.

It's a rather cheerless presentation ceremony as Real Madrid team-mate Gareth Bale presents Cristiano Ronaldo with his award in a makeshift studio. "Thank you BBC for choosing me and to my old fans in England. Thank you very much, have a good night."

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World player of the year, Champions League winner, 281 goals in 267 games for Real Madrid, 25 hat-tricks for his club, 31.6m Twitter followers. Best player in the world? Arguably so. Best player ever? Potentially so. And he's generous, too, buying each of his team-mates £6,500 watches to commemorate Real winning their 10th Champions League title.

It's time to flex the pectoral muscles (if you have any) in admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, Overseas Sports Personality of the Year.

Voting is now closed so don't ring or vote online as it won't count. You will now have to wait for the number-crunchers to tot up the votes and bring us the results.

"I would like to thank the RFU and Sport England and our friends and family and to everybody at home, this is a massive turning point for women's sport," says captain Katy McLean.

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This week they were awarded Freedom of Rugby Borough for winning the Women's Rugby World Cup and now England's women are BBC Sports Personality Team of the Year. England's team of teachers, vets, physios and plumbers beat Canada 21-9 in August, ending a run of three successive final defeats in the tournament. Up they step on stage to collect another prize.

Scottish sporting greats Gordon Strachan and Sir Jackie Stewart walk on stage with the Team of the Year trophy, which must mean it's time to announce the Team of the Year.

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Gareth Bale: Enjoying the show so far, a great year of sport!

More from Unsung Hero Jill Stidever on BBC Radio 5 live: "I genuinely did not think I would win. I was shaking like a leaf at the speech.

"I thought not me, even though I have a silly surname. I'm very proud and very humbled. I have a very different view to the one I had this morning.

"This is not my scene. I'm quite happy at the swimming pool and talking in front of a crowd. I also promised my daughter that I wouldn't have tears - but I let her down. In order to cope with this weekend, my doctor increased my dosage of tablets by rather a lot!"

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Republic of Ireland diver Oliver Dingley - with Britain's James Denny - catch up with singer Susan Boyle: "Cheeky selfie with the row behind."

"I'm very, very honoured," says Paul McGinley. "I need to thank the people of Scotland. Your support was huge. I had 12 great players, 12 great personalities and a great backroom team and vice captains." A short speech from the Ryder Cup captain, which is good news for those in charge of the schedule.

"Paul McGinley rewrites art of captaincy," wrote the Independent of the Ryder Cup skipper as his attention to detail helped deliver a memorable weekend in Gleneagles. "The best I've played under," gushed Graeme McDowell of his captain, while Rory McIlroy said after Europe's victory: "He has just been the most wonderful captain". McGinley is without doubt a popular captain.

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His team smashed the Americans in the Ryder Cup this summer in a 16½-11½ victory - the largest differential in the competition since 2008 - so it's perhaps no surprise that Paul McGinley is named BBC Sport Personality Coach of the Year.

Clare Balding says it's time to present the Coach of the Year award and who are we to say she's fibbing. Tom Daley and King of the Jungle Carl Froch will present the award to either British swimming coach Bill Furniss, Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley, Carl Froch's coach Rob McCracken or England women's rugby union team Gary Street. And the winner is...

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Steph Ware: Female Rowing Legend Katherine Grainger - back in the game for Rio!

Grainger was an Olympic champion in the double sculls with Anna Watkins at London 2012. Bonus points to Steph, by the way, for managing to capture another selfie in the background.

Ireland won the Six Nations, Manchester City the Premier League, Europe retained the Ryder Cup and England's women were crowned world champions - but who will win the Team of the Year award? I'm assuming we'll find out soon, although the show is slightly behind schedule.

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Making her second selfie appearance of the evening, it's England Women's Rugby World Cup-winning captain Katy McLean, with team-mates Sarah Hunter and Mo Hunt.

"For sport to continue to be successful in Great Britain we still need volunteers and guys who give their time for free."

"I have practice [of a speech]. I had a seven-year-old boy win a race last weekend and he made a little speech thanking us for the medal," continues Jill Stidever. "I have got tears and it was that that was particularly special. It was also special that parents have trusted their children to me over the last few years. I'm not the most conventional but I work new ways to help them. Thank you to all those who have supported me."

A standing ovation for Jill Stidever as she collects the Unsung Hero trophy. Prince Harry is on his feet, so too Jonny Wilkinson. There's whooping and whistling, too, before Gary Linker gives her a mic. "For my team, husband and all the rest who supported me, thank you very much."

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We turn our attention to the Unsung Hero award and this year's recipient is swimming coach Jill Stidever. The 77-year-old from Leicester has already been named BBC East Midlands Unsung Hero for 2014 in recognition of her work helping disabled children. Hopefully she still has room in a cabinet for another gong.

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You probably already know who they are, but if you need reminding here are the 10 contenders (in alphabetical order): Gareth Bale, Charlotte Dujardin, Carl Froch, Kelly Gallagher & Charlotte Evans, Lewis Hamilton, Rory McIlroy, Jo Pavey, Adam Peaty, Max Whitlock and Lizzy Yarnold.

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We've been asking you for your selfies with top sports stars - and you haven't let us down.

Rebecca Warrington: Selfie with the lovely Brian O'Driscoll after his last game in May 2014.

And the tempo slows down a touch, the audience relaxes and Gary Lineker drinks a hot lemony drink (probably), as Clean Bandit perform on stage, joined by Jess Glynne who sings their single Rather Be. Voting will close in a little over 20 minutes.

Voting is now closed.

Voting is now closed.

Voting is now closed.

"It was a phenomenal year. There are so many people in this room, but the common denominator in people who are the best at what they do is hard work," says the Open champion.

"This was the trophy I dreamed of winning as a little boy, to have my mother there was special. It makes me a little emotional. It was a special moment and one I'll cherish for the rest of my life.

"I'll let people make comparisons to Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. I'm just trying to win as many majors as I can and see where that takes me."

More dry ice as Rory McIlroy walks on stage holding the Open trophy. At this rate, they'll need another dry ice machine.

"The Green Jacket, that's the one I'm aiming for next year, that would be the career Grand Slam, it would be a huge thing to achieve at 25 years of age," says McIlroy when asked about next year's Masters in Augusta.

"Rory's had a phenomenal year. He's reached the Woods level and even surpassed it. He basically won the Ryder Cup by stamping his authority."

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"He's a great role model and great icon for Europe" - 2010 US Open champion Graeme McDowell on Rory McIlroy.

McIlroy's year in a nutshell

- Golf's world number one won two more major titles.

- Victory at the Open Championship secured him the third leg of a career Grand Slam.

- Three weeks later, the Northern Irishman became first player from the UK to win back-to-back majors by claiming second US PGA title.

- Won three points as Europe retained the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.

Young Sports Personality of the Year Claudia Fragapane on BBC Radio 5 live: "I've one a few trophies but did not expect to win this. It was scary speaking to so many people, it was so emotional, it was just horrible.

"Our main aim was to get the team gold and after that it was like job done. I still can't believe I've won it. It's absolutely incredible, I'm so overwhelmed."

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How do you celebrate winning the Young Sports Personality of the Year award? With a cheery picture of yourself in the audience, of course. Claudia Fragapagne even used the #spotyselfie Twitter hashtag. Impressive.

Speaking in front of an audience of thousands is a knee-knocking experience so it's no wonder Kelly Gallagher says: "I'd rather be skiing than up here.

"We wanted gold medals and that's what we wanted every time we were up there," Gallagher adds. "People were joking on Twitter, using the hashtag #historymakers. I would love to be able to drive a car or ride a horse. Skiing's the only thing where I'm allowed to go at 75mph. My parents have always been really supportive when I was down and didn't think I could it. To stand on top of the mountain and to go down it is the best job in the world."

Charlotte Evans MBE, who won gold at the women's Super-G in the 2014 Winter Paralympics alongside Kelly Gallagher: "I never dreamt I'd get invited to #SPOTY2014 let alone be nominated for it. What a year, the support has been incredible. Thanks EVERYONE."

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"They are amazing - an absolute team" - the 1972 BBC Sports Personality Dame Mary Peters on Winter Paralympic gold medallists Kelly Gallagher and guide Charlotte Evans.

Gallagher & Evans's year in a nutshell

- Won Great Britain's first ever Winter Paralympics gold medal - in the visually impaired Super-G event in Sochi.

- Gallagher goes down the slopes at 100km/h despite having little vision.

- Evans provides audio commentary, relayed through a Bluetooth earpiece.

- The pair were awarded MBEs for services to visually impaired sport.

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British Olympic and world rowing champion Helen Glover: I think they put me in the wrong seat by mistake! What legends! Paula Radcliffe and Chris Hoy.

"It's unbelievable. That night at Wembley my whole career was on the line so to finish like that was fantastic," says Froch.

"It was difficult to take in the crowd, you are so focused on your game plan. I've been some unbelievable fights but to lay that punch on George Groves can define my career. I'm not the most talented but I'm still here.

"I put myself under a lot of pressure due to the needle. I could feel the weight for three or four months missing my partner Rachael and two kids. When that punch landed I felt relief and satisfaction that he would never get up."

"Carl Froch is cherished, pubs in Nottingham will operate a one in, one out policy just to watch him."

"Let's get ready to rumble," says a stadium announcer as the Hydro turns into a boxing arena. Anticipation rises... will And and Dec make an appearance? No, nope, it's Carl Froch on his own who walks on to chat to Gabby Logan. Three men are caught taking pictures of the boxer as he strides towards Logan. "I'm not the most talented fighter, but there's something inside me which refuses to quit," says Froch.

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"He is ridiculously tough, with an incredible ability to digest pain" - 1985 BBC Sports Personality of the Year winner Barry McGuigan on boxing world champion Carl Froch.

Froch's year in a nutshell

- Carl 'The Cobra' Froch retained his IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles against bitter rival George Groves.

- After a controversial bout in November 2013, the two met again in front of a British record 80,000 fans at Wembley Stadium in May.

- Nottingham's Froch knocked Groves out in the eighth round with a right hand described as one of the best punches in British boxing history.

- After the fight he got down on one knee in the ring to propose to his partner Rachael Cordingley, a model, with whom he has two young children.

There's talk of upper cuts and knockout blows, which must mean we're moving on to the next contender, Carl Froch.

"It's phenomenal. These guys went to war to make the ultimate sacrifice and the fact they have gone through all of this and made something positive of the horrific situation they find themselves.

"In cricket we've had one person die, but these people have lost plenty of their best mates. It's very humbling."

Alice Goring: Hahaa my boyfriend just texted me saying me and Dean Golding, Charlotte Dujardin's boyfriend, have a lot in common #horsesfirst

Sarah W: Jo Pavey has totally made me cry. She should be the role model that young girls look up to, not any member of the Kardashian family.

Alexandra Bassingham: Fab to see Claudia Fragapane winning BBC's young SPOTY. Well deserved - what a talent and what a moment for her and her family.

"To use the phrase blown away is inappropriate but we were," says Dave Henson. "We expected Aldershot but we were given the Olympic Stadium. It's absolutely overwhelming."

"I'm like a proud dad," says Prince Harry, much to the amusement of the crowd.

Applause turns into a standing ovation for the competitors of the Invictus Games and a warm smile from Prince Harry awaits them all on stage. Prince Harry makes the presentation to the captain of Great Britain's team Dave Henson.

"We should not underestimate the power of sport, that changes life," says Prince Harry before presenting the award. "All of those who complete in the Invictus Games have achieved so much just to make it to the starting line-up.

"They showed what can be achieved if you have the will. They also came together to say thank you for the unwavering support throughout their recovery and remember those who weren't so lucky. They are Invictus."

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Prince Harry will present the Helen Rollason Award which, this year, goes to the 400 servicemen and women who competed at the Invictus Games. The Games, designed to introduce injured service members and veterans to Paralympic sports, was held in London in September.

"These men and women will no longer be defined by their injuries," says Prince Harry. "Their stories move, humble and captivate us."

Four-time Olympic gold medallist Matthew Pinsent: It was about this time during the 1990s "other world champions" montages that Sir Steve used to whisper "we've just got to keep on winning".

"At the start of the year, it was all about seeing if there was any outside possibility of scraping a place in team," says Jo Pavey. "I was breastfeeding until the start of April. I wanted to appreciated having a baby. Getting back to training, my times were horrendous. I thought 'let's give it one last go', and to get a medal was surreal.

"I used to stress about training but now there are too many other things to think about. I train hard but I don't dwell on things. I'm in a happy place.

"My team-mates call me granny. Maybe I'm a slow learner, but it was worth waiting for, and I've enjoyed it a lot more. It's taught me not to stress about things. When I was younger, I used to train on Christmas Day, but I'll take it off this year."

"I struggle to get up and go training and university. I don't know how she does it."

"It's unbelievable with two young children to find the time and belief. At 41 she never gave up."

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"I'm sure she is an inspiration to a lot of people. She's been an inspiration to me" - 2002 BBC Sports Personality Paula Radcliffe on Jo Pavey.

Pavey's year in a nutshell

- Won first major title at the European Championships in Zurich in the 10,000m

- At the age of 40 years and 325 days became the oldest-ever female European athletics champion

- Ten days previously she won a bronze in the 5,000m at the Commonwealth Games

- Devon athlete only returned to the track in May, eight months after giving birth to her second child, when she won British 10,000m Championship

If you've been following this live text coverage from the very start, you've got good stamina - but you still probably wouldn't beat the next Sports Personality contender...

"He would have loved to be here tonight. He's in London Olympia because we've got a competition in three days," says Charlotte Dujardin of her horse Valegro.

"They're not just a horse they're your best friend. You know each other inside out. To have that relationship with an animal is fantastic. I started as a normal girl with dreams and I've gone way beyond whatever I thought I'd achieve."

On her relationship with fiancé Dean Golding: "On our first date, I said to him: 'my horses come first, if you don't like it you know where the door is. He chose to stick with me'."

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"Her success has probably been even bigger than the Olympic legacy for British dressage" - Carl Hester on fellow London 2012 Olympic equestrian gold medallist Charlotte Dujardin.

Dujardin's year in a nutshell

- Made history by winning two gold medals at the World Equestrian Games.

- First British equestrian rider to be Olympic, world and European champion at the same time.

- Picked up gold in the freestyle and grand prix special, plus a silver in the team event on her horse Valegro.

- At Olympia, won the London stage of the dressage World Cup and holds the world record in all three elements of her sport.

"It has grace, precision, power, beauty," says Clare Balding as she introduces the next contender. "It's just like Strictly." Balding is, of course, talking about dressage.

"I enjoyed this title more than my first because I think it was so much harder," says F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton.

"The first one was my dream. I told Ron [Dennis] when I was 10 I wanted to be a champion in his car.

"There's been a lot of work we've put in throughout the last six years; a lot of ups and downs and mistakes. It's been an incredible year. People questioned the move but I felt it was the right one for me. It's been an incredible year."

"I used to be a huge F1 fan, I grew up three miles from Silverstone. I lost interest at the start but I was glued to it by the end."

Ian Kingston: What I like about about these non-mainstream sports is the lack of arrogance from the athletes. Please note footballers!!

Shelley Hunter: Watching SPOTY on BBC1. Time for some real icons, idols and people to aspire to. These people work hard every day of the year.

Jim Patterson: Pretty sure I raced and beat Adam Peaty when we were younger, now I'm watching SPOTY with a beer while he is a contender.

Plenty of dry ice for Lewis Hamilton as the doors are pulled back and he emerges from backstage. "How are you doing, Glasgow?" asks Hamilton to the crowd. He seems to have taken tips from his girlfriend Nicole on how to work a large arena. No sign of Roscoe.

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"The drivers who are truly exceptional have something extra. Hamilton, like his childhood hero Ayrton Senna, has that X-factor" - David Coulthard, a 13-time grand prix winner, on F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton.

Hamilton's year in a nutshell

- Became the first British driver for more than 40 years to win a second Formula 1 world title.

- Edged out Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg with victory in the last race in Abu Dhabi.

- Won 11 races during a dramatic battle for the title.

- Surpassed Nigel Mansell's British record of 31 grand prix victories and helped team win the constructors' championship.

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Congratulations to Britain's Liam Tancock, who has won the prize for the most swimmers in one selfie.

"I would just like to thank everyone for your support," says Fragapane before taking a deep breath. "I'd just like to thank my mum and dad because they've been so supportive." Her Italy-born father smiles, but he isn't wearing an Italy football shirt this evening. He was seen in the Azzurri top while watching his daughter during the Commonwealths this summer.

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And the winner is... Claudia Fragapane. The 17-year-old has been tipped to become Britain's greatest gymnast, in the summer the 'pocket rocket' became the first Englishwoman to win four golds at a single Commonwealth Games for 84 years and now she is the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year. Take a bow, or a tumble, Claudia Fragapane.

We were wondering when he was going to make an appearance and there he is - popping up behind Sir Chris Hoy and Paula Radcliffe. "Where's Sue Barker?" asks Hacker, much to the amusement of Hoy and Radcliffe, and everyone else in the arena. Anyway, it's time for the first award of the evening - Young Sports Personality of the Year.

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Below are the longer 11-digit landline phone numbers for each candidate followed by shorter, seven-digit numbers for mobile phones.

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"I had a really good winter of training and hoped that would help, but I wouldn't be here without my coach [Mel Marshall]," Peaty continues.

"The team is just amazing. In a few years' time, I hope we're going to be winning golds everywhere. It's pretty much a family.

"Patting my chest before races released the adrenalin. It's a bit painful, but it helps me swim faster. I'm just honoured to be here."

Ed Sheeran's singing rings around the arena as Adam Peaty, the youngest contender, walks down the aisle towards Clare Balding. The Swimmer has opted for brown shoes with a dark suit. Not that that's important. "I hated going in the shower, hated going in the pool. I used to cry like a baby probably until I was 12," he says of his dislike of water.

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"He's had a phenomenal year competing against some of the best guys in the world" - former world swimming champion Mark Foster.

Peaty's year in a nutshell

- Swimmer became a double Commonwealth gold medallist and four-time European champion.

- At the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, took gold in the 100m breaststroke and 4x100m relay medley, and a silver in the 50m breaststroke.

- In Berlin at the Europeans, broke the 50m breaststroke world record en route to winning gold in four different disciplines.

- Won silver in two individual events and team relay at the World Short Course Championships in Doha.

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Six-time world champion Mark Foster says Britain has its best group of swimmers for 30 years and he has plenty to back-up his claim, with Scotland's Ross Murdoch, Wales' Jazz Carlin, England's Ben Proud and Fran Halsall all winning Commonwealth golds this summer. But the swimmer leading the new generation is the next contender... Adam Peaty.

"It feels so weird walking out here," says Whitlock, dressed in a dark suit instead of the red and white spandex he wore at the Hydro during the summer. "I want to be the best I can be and I love being in the gym, training as hard as I can."

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"He has strength, power and balance - he's got the whole package" - former gymnastics world champion Beth Tweddle on Max Whitlock.

Whitlock's year in a nutshell

- Picked up a host of medals from the World, European and British Championships, and at the Commonwealth Games.

- Equalled the best all-around finish by a Briton at a World Championship, taking silver in Nanning, China.

- Took gold at the European Championships on the pommel horse.

- Won three golds, a silver and a bronze at the Commonwealths.

Gabby Logan is standing next to Britain's finest gymnasts which means it must be time to be introduced to the third contender, Max Whitlock. The Englishman will enjoy returning to Glasgow, the city where he won three Commonwealth golds this summer.

Warm applause for Gareth Bale as he is introduced by Gary Lineker. The Real Madrid forward isn't in Glasgow as he is doing what he does best, playing football for the Spaniards, so a video link-up will have to do.

"The special thing is the Champions League. Every footballer wants to win the biggest competition in the world so to win and score is a dream come true," says the Welshman.

"It's a bit difficult with the language but I'm learning slowly," adds Bale of life in Spain before Lineker shows off his linguistic skills and Bale giggles.

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"I think he's up there as one of the best four or five players in the world" - John Hartson on fellow Welshman Gareth Bale.

Bale's year in a nutshell

- Shrugged off £85m price tag as world's most expensive footballer during dazzling debut season at Real Madrid.

- Former Southampton and Tottenham player clocked up 22 goals and 16 assists in 2013-2014 season.

- Netted winning goal in Copa del Rey final; first Welshman to score in a European Cup/Champions League final.

- Helped Real win 'La Decima' - a historic 10th European title. Named Welsh footballer of the year for record fourth time.

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How Liverpool fans must wish it was still the 2013-14 season... An exciting end to last season's Premier League saw Manchester City pip a Luis Suarez-inspired Liverpool to the title, ensuring a League Cup and Premier League double for Manuel Pellegrini in his first season. Easy this football management, said the Chilean.

And over in north London, Arsenal fans celebrated as their nine-year wait for a trophy ended with victory over Hull City in the FA Cup final. Football smoothly takes us to our second contender...

"It's a tough sport and I train really hard," Yarnold tells Balding. "Just a few weeks ago, I crashed. You're travelling at 90mph, so if anything goes wrong, it's a disaster.

"When I first tried skeleton, I hated it and I swore I would never do it again - and I'm addicted now."

BBC Match of the Day commentator Guy Mowbray: Gutted to not be at SPOTY - but would have had to miss Man Utd v Liverpool. Nice choice to have!

For UK viewers, Match of the Day 2, featuring Guy's commentary, is on at 22:45 GMT, except in Scotland, where it starts at 23:40.

Angela Lewis: Poor Gary Lineker - needs a hot lemon and an early night.

Samantha Wilson: Tonight is the best night of TV, love BBC's SPOTY...

Tash Newman: Clare Balding looks fabulous!

Lizzy Yarnold, looking like a Greek goddess in a long metallic Grecian dress, successfully negotiates the steps and joins Clare Balding on stage. "It's always, what car do you drive?" says Yarnold of the most popular question children ask her.

OtherCopyright: Other

"She is the perfect form lying on the sled - I think she is going to dominate for years to come" - Amy Williams on fellow Olympic skeleton champion Lizzy Yarnold.

Yarnold's year in a nutshell

- Dominated the women's skeleton event to win Great Britain's only gold medal of the 2014 Winter Olympics.

- Yarnold's victory was only GB's 10th winter title in Games history.

- Led the field throughout the four-race event in Sochi, and her winning margin of 0.97 seconds was the largest ever.

- She also secured the overall World Cup title in 2013-14, reaching the podium in seven of the eight World Cup races and winning four golds.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Jade Jones is on the front row at the Hydro, smiling and laughing with Nicola Adams. Equally worthy of a mention are surely the Norwegian curling team for their colourful psychedelic slacks? The team's eye-catching trousers did the trick as the men won curling gold. But let's move on to our first contender...

APCopyright: AP

In the words of Julie Andrews, let's start at the very beginning because it's a very good place to start.

Ah, the Winter Olympics where Jenny Jones won Britain's first Olympic medal on the snow with a dramatic slopestyle bronze, Britain had weeks of curling fever as the men and women took silver and bronze and one woman, Lizzy Yarnold, returned from Russia with something a lot more precious than love (possibly) - gold.

"Gareth Bale is the only one of the ten finalists not here, he is in Morocco playing an exhibition match, but will be available via video link."

@JessTaylor25Copyright: @JessTaylor25

British heptathlete Jess Taylor had time just before the show got under way to grab this selfie with Sports Personality nominee Jo Pavey.

BBCCopyright: BBC

Just in case you've forgotten, or aren't aware what's happening this evening, the reason why we're here tonight is to find out who will be crowned 2014 BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

The 10 contenders, in alphabetical order, are: Gareth Bale, Charlotte Dujardin, Carl Froch, Kelly Gallagher & Charlotte Evans, Lewis Hamilton, Rory McIlroy, Jo Pavey, Adam Peaty, Max Whitlock and Lizzy Yarnold.

"Show your appreciation for one of Scotland's greatest bands, Simple Minds," says Andrew Cotter before Gary Lineker, Clare Balding and Gabby Logan appear on stage to a wild reception. Prince Harry mumbles something to Jonny Wilkinson. They both laugh, but stop suddenly once they realise the cameras are on them. Careful, boys.

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Europe's victorious Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley has another reason to celebrate at the end of 2014 - the form of his favourite football team, West Ham, who are fourth in the Premier League.

"I've supported them since the 1975 Cup final, when they beat Fulham and I was seven or eight years old. I liked the claret and blue and I've been West Ham ever since," said McGinley.

"I'm looking forward to seeing them playing against some of the top teams going forward in the next few months and hopefully we can stay clear of injuries."

And we're off. It's that familiar Sports Personality soundtrack... the smashing of cymbals, trumpets... and Jim Kerr's Simple Minds starts singing 'Waterfront'. "Get in, get out of the rain," he sings. "I'm goin' to move on up to the Waterfront." The crowd are clapping... glow sticks are waving... They didn't have any of this in 1954.

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1962, what a year that was. The BBC broadcast the first episode of Z-Cars, Panda crossings were introduced in Britain (don't ask, think zebra crossing but with triangles), the first legal casino opened in Britain and Anita Lonsbrough became the first female to win BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

The swimmer, then 21, had won Commonwealth gold in the 110 yards breaststroke, 220 yards breaststroke and 440 yards individual medley, adding to the Olympic 200m breaststroke gold she won in Rome two years earlier.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

Here's a fact for you. More BBC Sport Personality winners have come from the world of athletics than any other sport. Seventeen of the previous 60 winners have plied their trade in track and field, with the second most popular sport, Formula 1, providing six winners.

@_SamanthaMurrayCopyright: @_SamanthaMurray

World modern pentathlon champion Samantha Murray gets in on the selfie act. On one side, comedian Eddie Izzard, on the other, British tennis player Lisa Whybourn.

"It has to be Jordanne Whiley winning the US Open in the wheelchair tennis to win the Grand Slam."

What were your favourite sporting moments of the year? Tweet us your thoughts using the hashtag #SPOTY

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Sochi hosted the Winter Olympics, thankfully there was gold and snow, and as the frost and chill made way for spring, the Six Nations warmed and Ireland went into full bloom.

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The summer sizzled: Wimbledon's red-hot aces, the World Cup's scorching goals and Commonwealth golds in a baking(ish) Glasgow.

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And in Gleneagles there was an Indian Summer as Europe's Ryder Cup team came on top once more.

"For someone desperate to play golf, it was great to see Europe beating the Yanks. And my mate Alastair Cook scoring 90 at the Rose Bowl towards the end of the summer."

Scottish band Simple Minds will be opening the show - and frontman Jim Kerr recalled their song Waterfront, which was written about the area of the River Clyde where the SSE Hydro now stands.

"It is amazing to see it now, there has been so much regeneration," said Kerr.

"It's a sign of the progress made that the show is here and it will be great to perform in our home town."

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

If you are going to peek through the BBC Sports Personality archives, turn your attention to 1985 the year Barry McGuigan won - or Barry McCochran as he was named when the announcement was made, much to the amusement of Frank Bruno who was sitting next to him.

Presenters Clare Balding, Gabby Logan and Gary Lineker have appeared on stage to say hello to the crowd. "There's going to be a lot of noise tonight," predicts Logan, looking resplendent in a blue and black dress. Lineker is remaining silent, though, as the Match of the Day presenter has a sore throat. Best get gargling some whiskey, Gary.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

I'm not one to tell tales, but in 1957 Dai Rees apparently became a national celebrity after helping Europe's Ryder Cup team to victory for their first win over the United States since 1933. The Welshman, then 44, remains the oldest winner of the award.

So, this is what we've got in store for us this evening and, being as we're all (probably) feeling festive, let's sing it to the tune of Twelve Days of Christmas:

At tonight's Sports Personality there will be... Simple Minds singing, Hacker T Dog, a team of the year, lots of clapping, even more voting, plenty of dry ice, a Royal guest, thousands of selfies, a lifetime achievement, an unsung hero, one happy coach and a BBC Sports personality-y-y-y-y.

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And breathe.

@NickyBenedettiCopyright: @NickyBenedetti

Violinist Nicola Benedetti, who will be performing as part of tonight's Sports Personality show, has found some words of inspiration. For our non-Scottish audience, 'Gie it laldy' translates roughly as 'give it your all'.

"I will be exactly that tonight," she tweets.

The red carpet coverage has now finished, mainly because there isn't anyone on it anymore. The carpet isn't actually the reason why Britain's best sports stars are here this evening.

But don't go thinking you can turn your attentions onto Strictly Come Dancing or X-Factor because live coverage has begun on BBC Radio 5 live - and the show itself will be broadcast live on BBC1 and online at 20:00 GMT.

@MJ88LiveCopyright: @MJ88Live

Michael Jamieson: Having a blast at SPOTY tonight - got my selfie in with Rory McIlroy.

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We weren't making it up. Sports Personality contender Lewis Hamilton has turned up with his bulldog Roscoe and there are pictures to prove it. Hopefully the Briton has brought his pooper scooper with him because I don't think Gary Lineker, Gabby Logan or Clare Balding have such tasks written into their contracts. Hopefully no-one at the BBC has...

Nominee Jo Pavey, who won European Championship gold in the 10,000m, at the age of 40: "Glasgow was such an amazing experience. I was more surprised than anyone else.

"I was just hoping for a team place as I was still breastfeeding in April.

"To be here as one of the 10 is unbelievable.

"I feel so honoured. It's happened at the happiest part of my life. I have two lovely children and a supportive husband, it's so special."

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

It wouldn't be a Scottish sporting knees-up without three-time Formula 1 champion Sir Jackie Stewart.

"Both Lewis and Nico [Rosberg] were pushing and shoving. It made it exciting," he says of this year's season finale. "I would like to have seen closer racing within the rest of the field, but it was still a good year. Fernando Alonso has the best brains of any racing driver, so it's going to be exciting next year."

@Sherwinn_Copyright: @Sherwinn_

Kate Sherwin: Me with Greg Rutherford - an absolute gentleman.

Rutherford leapt (ahem) to prominence by winning Olympic gold in the long jump at London 2012, before this year taking the European title in Zurich and the Commonwealth crown in Glasgow.

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Boxer Carl Froch, one of the SPOTY nominees: "Just arrived @BBCSPOTY looking forward to the show. Thanks for the support."

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Sir Chris Hoy will, of course, receive the Lifetime Achievement award this evening and the Scot has been reflecting on his remarkable cycling career.

"I would have said my first gold medal at the Athens Olympics couldn't be topped, until London 2012. The last medal was so emotional. When I watch the video of it now, I still get goosebumps," he tells Lee McKenzie.

"Every time I watch a bike race, I want to be out there. I was at the World Cup in London, and I wanted to be out there. But it was great to watch the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow."

TwitterCopyright: Twitter

Helen P: Me and this fella.

Sir Chris Hoy was Sports Personality of the Year in 2008, having become the first British Olympian in 100 years to win three gold medals in one Games as he took the keirin, team sprint and individual sprint titles in Beijing.

Just in case you missed a couple of posts earlier, this is a reminder to say you can vote online, via the BBC Sport website, in addition to ringing up on your phone.

To cast your vote online you will need to be signed into the BBC website, which is simple - just click here to get ready to vote.

Voting is due to open during the BBC1 Sports Personality of the Year programme, which starts at 2000 GMT. (Terms and conditions can be found on the BBC Sport website. )

@EniAluCopyright: @EniAlu

Chelsea Ladies footballer Eni Aluko suffered the pain of missing out on the Women's Super League title to Liverpool on the final day of the season in October, but is happy to be in Glasgow tonight, tweeting: Ready for the BBC SPOTY with Gethin Jones!!

"It's great to be here. I've taken my dog with me on holiday!" says Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton.

"I haven't stopped since Abu Dhabi, it's been amazing. It's been so much better than the first world title. It's just been a whirlwind. I'm not bothered to have not had many days off.

"I don't think it has really sunk in yet. I just think 'wow we won the world championship.' I just have to pinch myself.

"Normally I'm away at this point of the year but I've had the most incredible support and this is one of the fans' most enjoyable events. I was asked to come, I grew up watching this show and wanted to come back."

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

BBC Sports Personality contender Lewis Hamilton has arrived on the red carpet with his pet bulldog, Roscoe, who was apparently in LA with his girlfriend Nicole but fancied a trip to Glasgow. Who wouldn't? But you should never work with children and animals, so the saying goes, and Roscoe is currently licking Lee McKenzie's leg...

For those interested in such things, Hamilton is wearing a deep berry velour jacket and what look like black trainers.

BBC Sports Personality contender Kelly Gallagher, speaking to BBC Sport: "It was incredible to win gold. It was only when we came home that we realised we'd made history. We're the first double nomination since Torvill and Dean, although we're not married to each other.

"Charlotte and I know each other as if we were sisters. I'm more nervous about this event than I am about competing. We're going to go for another medal. I watched some of our footage back tonight and I got such a buzz."

Co-nominee Charlotte Evans says: "I was screaming down the phone when I found out we had been nominated. It's so nice to dress up and hang out for once. It's going to be a really amazing night."

@JournalistBenCopyright: @JournalistBen

Ben Moore: My two skiing sons with SPOTY contender Charlotte Evans.

Evans is the guide for Paralympic skier and co-nominee Kelly Gallagher. Together they won Britain's first Winter Paralympic gold medal in the women's super-G at Sochi 2014.

No sign of Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton yet as his flight from Los Angeles was apparently delayed, but it shouldn't take the Briton too long to get ready and he should be speaking to Lee McKenzie shortly.

World boxing champion Carl Froch, one of the 10 Sports Personality nominees, recalls May's Wembley victory over George Groves:"It was fantastic to win in the manner I won on such a massive platform.

"The atmosphere was unbelievable. I couldn't take it in until I watched it back the next day. A crowd of 80,000 was incredible. We picked the smallest ring possible, because I didn't want my opponent running away.

"Sports Personality is massive. To be recognised on such a big platform is a huge thing. Without the event, we wouldn't have that opportunity. All sports people love this event."

We've seen many of the contenders on the red carpet and the next to pose for the paps and stop for the reporters is is Winter Olympic skeleton champion Lizzy Yarnold,

"I had three flights to get here," says Yarnold, who was competing in Lake Placid two days ago.

"I competed on Friday, had a good race, and now it's time to celebrate. And I get to meet all my heroes. I need an autograph card. When I think that I've been nominated, it takes my breath away. I watched this as a kid every year."

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No gymnast has won BBC Sports Personality, could Max Whitlock be the first? The Commonwealth all-around champion is one of the 10 contenders and says: "It really hasn't sunk in. It's unbelievable. I'm very pleased with my year. It was incredible when I found out."

@GaryLinekerCopyright: @GaryLineker

BBC presenter Gary Lineker: Glasgow is ready! Who shall it be?

TwitterCopyright: Twitter

Marie: My SPOTY not-quite-selfie with 1984 winners Torvill and Dean.

Fact: Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean are the only dual winners of the Sports Personality of the Year award to date. Their Winter Olympics gold medal-winning efforts pipped athlete Sebastian Coe into second place and snooker player Steve Davis into third.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

Another Sports Personality contender arrives on the red carpet and this time it's reigning PGA Championship and US Open golf champion Rory McIlroy. Dark suit, no specs.

"It's been a great year. It's been the best year to date in my career," says the Northern Irishman. " It's great to be here. To be nominated is an accumulation of everything you've achieved. It's great to be in such company.

No golfer has been named Sports Personality of the Year since Sir Nick Faldo in 1989 - the year of McIlroy's birth - and he continues: "It's been a long time since a golfer's won it. It would mean a lot. Golf feels as if it needs a bit of injection of excitement, but we'll see what happens."

As well as posing for selfies, Judy Murray took time out to speak to the BBC. "I think this is the first time it's been in Scotland and it's wonderful not to travel," says Andy's mum.

"I haven't been dancing, I had the most wonderful experience on Strictly but everyone goes back for four days this week. It's been a real highlight of my life."

Matt DavisCopyright: Matt Davis

Just one word from Matt Davis on his SPOTY selfie: "Judy."

That's Judy Murray; British Fed Cup captain, mother to two Wimbledon champions (don't forget Jamie won the mixed doubles title in 2007) and Strictly Come Dancing contestant, or former SCD contestant.

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Swimmer Adam Peaty, who has been nominated for BBC SPOTY, won double Commonwealth Gold and broke the 50m breast stroke world record. "It's not been a bad year, definitely not," he says.

"I never thought I'd be as fast as the world record this quick. It's been a whirlwind of a year. I'm still 19 and still in a man's game. But it will be a tough few years now.

"The Commonwealths were pretty special. The whole Games were absolutely amazing but nothing can beat a world record at the end of the day."

@LiamTancockCopyright: @LiamTancock

British swimmer Liam Tancock: Looking slick for SPOTY.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

Some members of the audience will have spent hours pruning their beards or adding volume to their carefully-constructed bouffants this evening, but no matter how luxurious the pamper or how expensive the outfit, no-one will rival the gentleman sitting next to Princess Anne in 1971 for eye-catching style. Who the gentleman in the show-stopping mauve suit and tangerine shirt and tie is, no-one in the office knows. If someone could release us from our ignorance, we would be most grateful.

Aimee LewisCopyright: Aimee Lewis

Commonwealth diving champion Tom Daley is looking forward to SPOTY but what he is really excited about is Christmas. "I can't wait - and all I really want is lots of food," he tells me.

"With breakfast, we have have pancakes, waffles, bacon, eggs - you name it, I eat it. Then it's all about the turkey. And to finish? Sweets, chocolates, ice cream and sticky toffee pudding!"

@JPickoverCopyright: @JPickover

Joe Pickover: Speaking to Nicola Adams after she made history winning gold at the Commonwealth Games.

Leeds-born Adams became the first female Olympic boxing champion when she won flyweight gold for Great Britain at London 2012. Who's the most famous sportsperson you've posed with for a photo? Send us your pictures using the hashtag #spotyselfie

Max WhitlockCopyright: Max Whitlock

Gymnast and BBC SPOTY nominee Max Whitlock: On the way!

British dressage rider Charlotte Dujardin, one of the 10 Sports Personality nominees, is being interviewed by Lee McKenzie on the red carpet.

"I'm hugely privileged to be here tonight and to have our sport recognised. A massive thank you to everyone who's behind me to make it happen," she says.

"Every time I go out there, I have to raise the bar. I makes it exciting. For me, it's about not making mistakes in my performance. I have to hope the horse is in a good mood and wants to help me. I'm very lucky that he always does."

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"Sports Personality contender Jo Pavey says the last 12 months have been 'surreal' for her. The 41-year-old athlete won the European 10,000m title, 10 months after giving birth to her second child.

'At the start of the year I was breastfeeding, and now I'm here on the red carpet,' she said. 'I think being a mother has just taken the pressure off. It took me long enough to win gold, aged 40.'"

Retired swimmer Becky Adlington, a double Olympic gold medallist in 2008, tells BBC Sport: "The swimming team have really come on this year. They've been absolutely amazing. I'm sure they'll have a good run up to the 2016 Olympics.

"I think having Bill Furniss as performance director has helped; he knows the people and the system. And the swimmers are hungrier too. I think they became a little complacent ahead of London 2012, because there were so many places available. But now, they know there's a fight for places. They've got real ambition and drive."

If you want to see for yourselves Britain's favourite sports stars arriving for BBC Sports Personality of the Year, and maybe have a look at what they're wearing, red carpet coverage has now begun on the red button, the BBC News channel and online.

@KatyMc10Copyright: @KatyMc10

England's Women's Rugby World Cup winners are well represented in Glasgow tonight. Here are Mo Hunt, Emily Scarratt - who scored 16 of her country's points as they beat Canada 21-9 in August - and captain Katy McLean on the red carpet.

Don't forget, you can vote online this year, via the BBC Sport website, in addition to ringing up on your phone.

To cast your vote online you will need to be signed into the BBC website, which is simple - just click here to get ready to vote.

Voting is due to open during the BBC1 Sports Personality of the Year programme, which starts at 2000 GMT. (Terms and conditions can be found on the BBC Sport website. )

PACopyright: PA

Flashbulbs pop into overdrive as double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington arrives on the red carpet. Mansfield's favourite has learnt to work the cameras since she was thrust into the limelight after her double gold in Beijing 2008.

Her outfit? The mum to be is wearing a sparkly knee-high cream dress and super-high heel cream shoes. So far, no-one has been spotted wearing a winter coat or a woolly hat.. It's December people. Wrap up warm.

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"Britain's first Winter Olympic medallist on snow, Jenny Jones, who won snowboard slopestyle bronze in Sochi, is popular along the red carpet. 'This is amazing,' she tells me."

Lorraine McReight: Looking forward to SPOTY. I usually know who I want to win, but there are so many worthy winners this year, I can't choose!

Rick Walton: Only now has it dawned on me I'm not nominated. #bitterlybitterlydisappointedBrian

Kyle Kirkland: Sausage cob, The US Office, Super Sunday, Roast Dinner, Strictly, X-Factor final and SPOTY. Sundays are for chilling!

@BBCGetInspiredCopyright: @BBCGetInspired

Speaking of the #BigThankYou - comedian Eddie Izzard receives a friendly welcome on the red carpet from CBBC's Hacker T Dog.

Izzard, as I'm sure you're all aware, is a big Crystal Palace fan. Hacker prefers Wigan Athletic, so it's remarkable he's looking so cheerful, really.

For those of you interested in Izzard's outfit, he's wearing a black tux with six inch platform shoes.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

In case you missed their tweets, British triathletes Non Stanford and Vicky Holland have already thanked the coaches and volunteers who helped them reach the top of their sport.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

Join InCopyright: Join In

Thousands of volunteers helped make sport happen in 2014 which is why comedian Eddie Izzard will be on the red carpet before this evening's BBC One show, asking famous sportsmen and women to phone volunteers to say a big thank you.

You can also get involved by tweeting the volunteer or volunteers you want to thank, using the hashtag #BigThankYou.

@BigBrad_97Copyright: @BigBrad_97

Bradley: Me and Jenson Button this year - top gent.

Who's the most famous sportsperson you've collared for a photo? Send the results our way, please, using the hashtag #spotyselfie

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"Former Olympic skeleton silver medallist Shelley Rudman and her husband Kristan Bromley have just strolled down the red carpet and they're backing fellow slider Lizzy Yarnold tonight. Rudman adds that she's loving being pregnant for the second time, seven years after giving birth to daughter Ella so I asked her the obvious question. What she craving?

"Bromley smiled saying: 'I've been to get jars of pickled beetroot a few times!'"

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

Andy Murray was last year's BBC Sports Personality winner after becoming the first British man in 77 years to win Wimbledon. There was no Wimbledon title for Murray this year, not even a Grand Slam, so he's not on the shortlist. Sport can be so cruel.

But the point I'm trying really to make is you can look back on all the previous BBC Sports Personality of the Year winners by visiting the BBC Sport website's archive.

@jodamarrCopyright: @jodamarr

Who's the most famous sportsperson you've shoved in front of a camera in the name of the selfie? David Beckham, Sir Chris Hoy and even Zinedine Zidane have obligingly posed for some of you, which is nice of them. If you have any more pictures, please send them our way using the hashtag #spotyselfie. Thanks in advance.

@StevieHookCopyright: @StevieHook

@ClareBaldingCopyright: @ClareBalding

BBC Sports Personality presenter Clare Balding: Hey Gabby Logan, that human table you ordered has arrived with a trophy already on it.

@AFowler06Copyright: @AFowler06

British Commonwealth Games middleweight boxing champion Anthony Fowler: Me an my good mate Joey Cordina before the sports personality of the year awards tonight, the lads are looking sharp.

Cordina won a bronze in the lightweight category in Glasgow.

There was a time when people had to fill in Radio Times coupons weeks in advance to vote for their favourite sports personality but those days are gone, gone, gone. Once again, you can vote online this year, via the BBC Sport website, in addition to ringing up on your phone.

To cast your vote online you will need to be signed into the BBC website, which is simple - just click here to get ready to vote. Where? Here.

Voting is due to open during the BBC1 Sports Personality of the Year programme, which starts at 2000 GMT. (Terms and conditions can be found on the BBC Sport website. )

BBCCopyright: BBC

The reason why we're here tonight, me typing and you scrolling, is because we want to find out who will be crowned 2014 BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

There are 10 contenders for the prize and, in alphabetical order, they are: Gareth Bale, Charlotte Dujardin, Carl Froch, Kelly Gallagher & Charlotte Evans, Lewis Hamilton, Rory McIlroy, Jo Pavey, Adam Peaty, Max Whitlock and Lizzy Yarnold.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

"The venue, which opened by the River Clyde in September 2013 with a concert by Scotland's own Rod Stewart, looks stunning ahead of the big night.

"Sports Personality executive editor Carl Doran says: "We've wanted to come to Scotland for a while, and months of planning have gone in to creating what will hopefully be a great show. We've got an incredible line-up of sports stars, some amazing live performances, inspirational moments, surprises, and an exciting race to see who will be Sports Personality of the Year.'"

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BBC Sports Personality of the Year presenter Gabby Logan: Backstage and Clare Balding is working hard or drinking tea, I can't tell from here...

Clare Balding: Milk and one sugar if you're offering.

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BBC presenter Hazel Irvine is posing for photographs on the red carpet, rugby union great Gavin Hastings is chatting to reporters and gymnast Dan Keatings has also arrived - and what a bow tie he's sporting. An eye-catching maroon bow tie, it's a big one, and a light grey suit, an outfit Pee-wee Herman would be proud of.

"It's always nice to come back here," says Keatings, who won pommel horse gold at the Commonwealth Games. "The memories mean everything, it was definitely one of my best results. It was such a buzz around the Games."

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

"It's been quite a 14 months for the SSE Hydro, with Rod Stewart providing the venue's first gig back in September 2013, and Kylie Minogue, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus also dropping by since. The netball and gymnastic events from this year's Commonwealth Games were held here while One Direction are booked for next year.

"But for tonight, the venue will play host to the county's best sports stars. The rehearsals are almost done, the trophies perfectly polished and as you can see, the red carpet is looking resplendent. Let's do this."

Robbie Savage/InstagramCopyright: Robbie Savage/Instagram

BBC Match of the Day pundit Robbie Savage: False nose and glasses for SPOTY.

Good effort, Robbie, but I'm afraid you've still not made the 10-strong shortlist.

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If you're a bit like Oliver Twist when it comes to schedules and still want more, I can help with that. If speeches and chit-chat don't set us back, the awards will be, well, awarded at roughly these times (all digits in GMT):

20:37 - Young Sports Personality of the Year; 21:38 - Unsung Hero award; 21:50 - Coach of the Year; 21:58 - Team of the Year; 22:00 - Overseas Personality of the Year; 22:09 - Lifetime Achievement award; 22:18 - BBC Sports Personality of the Year

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

For those of you who like your days to be run with military precision, I will type some sort of schedule for you:

18:15-19:15 GMT - Live coverage, on red button, BBC News channel and online, of the great and good arriving on the red carpet.

19:30-23:00 GMT - John Inverdale hosts live coverage on BBC Radio 5 live.

20:00-22:00 GMT - Lights, camera, action as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year show is broadcast live on BBC One and this website.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

"After a windy wintry afternoon in Glasgow, the stage is set for the 2014 BBC Sports Personality of the Year show, which is being held in Scotland for the first time.

"A collection of trophies lined the side of the stage as dress rehearsals, against the backdrop of a glittering light show, have been taking place.

"Behind the scenes, last-minute phone calls are mixing with quick changes of dress as the arena prepares to welcome a 12,000 capacity crowd."

Hello! Welcome to live text coverage of BBC Sports Personality of the Year, held in Glasgow for the first time. Hopefully you're familiar with the show and weren't expecting live text coverage of the Antiques Roadshow (though it's only a matter of time).

The cream of Britain's sporting crop are in their Sunday best and gearing up for British sport's equivalent of the Oscars. For one night only, Scotland's largest city will rival LA for A-list glitz and glamour, so strap yourselves in to this live text rocketship and let's fly to Razzle-Dazzle Land.

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Smell that? Breathe in. Take a deep breath. Because it's a rare odour, a peculiar combination, a concoction that's only available once a year; a winning whiff that isn't on sale on Black Friday, or any other Friday. Flare the nostrils, take it in, it's eau de sporting showbiz - a scent which is only available one Sunday in December. Gallons of perfume, aftershave and hairspray, mixed with the rich smell of success. Lovely.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images