Five years of build-up has become a reality after the 22nd Commonwealth Games began in Birmingham in England on Friday morning.

More than 5000 athletes representing 72 nations and territories are in the West Midlands to compete in 19 sports and 280 medal events.

They included the 12 Pacific nations as well as New Zealand and Australia.

Tonga's two flag-bearers continued the national tradition of being oiled-up for an opening ceremony.

The opening ceremony took place in Birmingham's Alexander Stadium where the crowd was treated to a wide range of choreographed performances.

Para athlete Naibili Vatunisolo and lawn bowler Semesa Naiseruvati led Team Fiji.

Vatunisolo and Naiseruti were dressed in traditional masi attires while the athletes and officials were in Fiji's traditional blue.

Click here for more pictures and coverage of the opening ceremony.