by Julie Morgan

Last updated at 08:59, Friday, 27 July 2012

A BECKERMET teenager will be one of the youngest volunteers at the 2012 Olympics.

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Eilis Lightfoot will be working in the ‘common domain’ which houses the spectator areas between the five main Olympic arenas.

She applied online to participate and was chosen having just turned 18 three weeks before the cut-off date.

“I’m a bit nervous but I know it is a once-in-a-lifetime event so it is also exciting. I start work on Saturday collecting tickets, but I’m not sure what else to expect!’’

A former West Lakes Academy student, she is currently awaiting the results of her A-levels, and is aiming to study sport and exercise science at university.

“I’m staying with my aunt who lives in Essex,’’ Eilis said. “I’m working throughout the fortnight and I am looking forward to being part of the buzz.’’

Also volunteering is Vicky Hannah, who is a project manager for Home Group at its Whitehaven office.

Vicky, 29, who will be based at the main Olympic venue in Stratford, said: “I’m really looking forward to playing my little bit in helping to stage the largest show on earth.

“The Olympics is a once-in-a-lifetime event and when the organisers said they were looking for volunteers I thought it was too good an opportunity to miss.”

Vicky will act as a point of contact for various departments in the main Games area. She said: “I’ll be working as a general fixer helping with communications across the site. For instance, if someone needs a medical team I’ll make sure they get directed to the right place, or if someone turns up without the correct accreditation I’ll be on hand to help.

“I had a trip over to Tyneside for my first interview and since then there have been a few trips to London for briefing days. Luckily I have a few friends in London who I can stay with when I’m there so I’ll save money on accommodation.’’

Vicky, who has been given an extra week’s paid leave by Home Group, added: “I was lucky to get some tickets through the regular ballot so I’ll see the Olympics from the perspective of a volunteer and a sports enthusiast. It’ll be a busy fortnight but I’m sure I’ll enjoy every moment.”

First published at 11:10, Thursday, 26 July 2012
Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk