Eton Dorney Ambassadors ready for the Torch Relay

Almost 200 volunteers are trained and kitted out for their first official duty - helping to manage the crowds expected for the Olympic Torch Relay when it comes to the Royal Borough on Tuesday 10 July.

The Eton Dorney Ambassadors will be working along the routes through Maidenhead, Windsor and Ascot and will be easy to spot in their distinctive bright pink and purple uniforms.

They are part of a 300-strong volunteer force - trained to level 2 NVQ in spectator safety - who will be the official 'meeters and greeters' for the 25,000-a-day spectators and visitors expected for the rowing and canoe sprint events at Eton Dorney when the games get under way there on Saturday 28 July. They will work not only here in the Royal Borough but also in Slough and Burnham.

Next Tuesday the Ambassadors will help steward the Torch routes and will be ready to help people in the crowds with information and directions - and also be 'eyes and ears' on the ground to help the council and the police make sure the event takes place safely.

Cllr Simon Dudley, the council's lead member for the 2012 Games, paid tribute to the Ambassadors for their enthusiasm and willingness to get involved.

He said: "It is impressive that so many people have agreed to give their time freely to help make the Torch Relay and the Games really great experiences for everyone. They are a true reflection of the Big Society and a great credit to the Eton Dorney area where they will be making a real difference for visitors and residents alike."

Cllr Christine Bateson, cabinet member for planning and partnerships, said one of the most important aspects of the 2012 Games is its positive legacy to the community and added: "The Ambassadors are a shining example of this and we want to ensure their training and skills remain available in our community long after the Games are over."

More than 500 volunteers have been recruited to the Eton Dorney Ambassadors programme, with almost 300 fully trained. Over the past few months they have been gaining valuable practical experience at many high profile events, including the Diamond Jubilee Parade and Muster in Windsor in May, Royal Ascot, Royal Windsor Horse Show, the Diamond Jubilee Pageant and the Sunningdale Jubilee Music Festival.

More information at www.windsor.gov.uk/2012/volunteering

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