Chance of a lifetime: be a 2012 volunteer

The hunt is on for volunteers for the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics for people to become an official 'Gamesmaker'.

Around 70,000 people are needed at the Olympic Park in Stratford, to welcome tourists, help run sports events as well as carrying out the many administrative jobs that go on behind the scenes.

Applications to be a volunteer at the Olympics and Paralympics can be made from tomorrow (Wednesday 15 September) by going to www.london2012.com. The deadline for applications is 27 October. Those selected will need to take part in three training days and be available for at least ten days over the summer of 2012. The current recruitment drive is for anyone over 18.

For anyone who wants to get involved a little closer to home, the Kent eVent team could be the answer. After the Tour de France, it was felt that a team of willing volunteers available for one-off events, was needed and so the Kent Event Team was launched. There are now 1,300 people signed up who are ready to help out at community events as and when they can. The hope is that many of them will have enjoyed their experiences so much they will want to get involved in London 2012 too. To find out more, go to www.kenteventteam.org.uk.