Olympic Ambassadors

Ambassadors - armed with smiles and information

More than 500 people of all ages, interests, backgrounds and outlooks are joining forces with one aim in view - to give the warmest welcome to everyone attending the Olympic Games.

The Eton Dorney Olympic Ambassadors are volunteer meeters and greeters and, armed with smiles and lots of information, they are the face of the Olympics for the spectators and other visitors each day of the Games.

Ambassadors have undergone training developed for volunteers at the Vancouver Olympics so it has been well tested - they they put their skills to the text at a number of high profile events ahead of the Games, including the Diamond Jubilee muster and parade in Windsor.

Their first official event was the Olympic Torch Relay on Tuesday 10 July - also the first outing for their new pink and purple kit.

Ian Haggart, of Windsor, said: "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to support the Games. The training has been enjoyable and has given us the chance to meet other Ambassadors. We are looking forward to welcoming the thousands of visitors expected for the Games."

Maidenhead resident Charmian Dawsen said: "I responded to the advertisement for Eton Dorney Ambassadors as I was really keen to get involved in this 'once-in-a-lifetime' experience right on our doorstep. My training courses have been both interesting and enjoyable and it is amazing how complete strangers bonded and worked together in team activities."

Ambassador training - covering the same elements as given to Olympic Gamesmakers for inside the Games venues - supported them in giving a warm and friendly welcome to visitors so they take away lasting happy memories of their time in the Eton Dorney area. Volunteers have also been given the opportunity to achieve the NVQ diploma in spectator safety.

How do you rate this information/service?