The search is on for more than 1,500 volunteers needed to help run the Special Olympics in the city next year.

 

People across the county are being urged to get involved with the games, which will take place in July 2009.

 

Volunteers are needed to help with almost every aspect of running the games, from supporting the visiting teams and their families, to acting as officials, or helping with transport. The volunteer recruitment drive as launched by the Lord Mayor of Leicester, Manjula Sood, yesterday. She has chosen to support the Special Olympics through her Lord Mayor’s appeal this year.

 

Councillor Sood said: "The Special Olympics encourage and inspire everyone who is involved in them, and it is my aim to get every citizen involved in the Leicester games in some way."

 

Lynn Senior, volunteering director for the games, said: "We really need the help of local people to make the games a success.

 

"This is an opportunity for people to get involved with a major national event, which will have a big impact on the lives of many people."

 

Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks both before and during, the games.

 

Some are needed now to help with clerical duties, recruiting, and organising other volunteers, and the marketing of the games. Others will be trained to act as stewards and officials, provide first-aid support, and help with catering and transport.

 

Help will also be needed at all of the sports and accommodation venues, as well as at the opening and closing ceremonies, and in the games village in the city.

 

Anyone who wants to find out more, and register an interest in taking part can download an application form from the website www.voluntaryactionleicester.org.uk. Alternatively, they can contact Voluntary Action Leicester on 0116 257 4985. The games will take place in Leicester from July 25 to July 31, 2009. Anyone who would liked to contribute to the Lord’s Mayor’s appeal can call 0116 223 2000