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The Olympics

Up to 70,000 volunteers (called Games Makers) will be needed for the London 2012 Olympics. Volunteers have been integral to both Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games since they were used for the first time at London 1948. So in 2012, the volunteer programme will be coming home to the city where it all began!

Here are 10 facts on 'Being a Games Maker' (from the London 2012 organising committee)

1. We want London 2012 Games Makers from all walks of life and from across the UK
2. We are looking for people who have the same values and passion as us
3. You must be 18 or over on 1 January 2012 and have the right to volunteer in the UK
4. You must volunteer for a minimum of 10 days during the Games and attend at least three days of training
5. You must find your own means of transport and accommodation
6. You are not entitled to free tickets or back stage passes
7. Specialists and special interest groups are invited to apply from 27 July and generalists from 15 September 2010
8. You apply to be a Games Maker by completing an online application form
9. You can indicate where and how you would like to volunteer but this is not guaranteed
10. We expect many applications and you have a one in 10 chance of getting a role

To find out more or apply, click the link below (opens the London 2012 website in a new window)

If you decide volunteering at the Olympics isn’t for you, click here to search for volunteering opportunities in your local community (opens in a new window).