Time to help

The volunteer centre is now open and those looking to get involved are being asked to register their interest, with official applications opening in January. 
From April next year, an estimated 25,000 people will be interviewed. 
Graham Campbell, after volunteering at the 2005 special Olympics in Glasgow, was one of 70,000 volunteers at London 2012 and he is planning to reprise his role in 2014.

As general volunteer at the Excel Arena in London’s Docklands, each day Graham was assigned to a different team with tasks ranging from taking tickets to showing VIP’s to their seats or directing the crowds from a tennis umpire style chair with the help of a loud hailer.
The 45-year-old company director from Giffnock told The Extra: “The whole experience at London was fantastic from start to finish.
“The atmosphere amongst volunteers was second to none and the organisers made sure you saw at least a couple of hours of sports action a day.

“I knew nothing about table tennis, tae kwon do, fencing or judo prior to the London Olympics but really enjoyed watching these events.

“It was fantastic to help visitors enjoy the best of Britain at London and I’m sure it will be as good in Glasgow.

He continued: “I would encourage others to do it as it does open your eyes as to the difference you can make.

“The only advice I would give is put a smile on your face at all times as this can solve a thousand problems with difficult visitors.

“ Go the extra mile and you will get back as much as you put in and don’t be put off by the often less than flattering uniform you will be asked to wear.

Southside central councillor Mhairi Hunter is also hoping to join the volunteering effort.

She said: “The Commonwealth Games will be a huge sporting and cultural event and an opportunity to showcase Glasgow to the world. We want everyone’s experience to be fantastic

“. I’m going to volunteer my time and I am sure many of my councillor colleagues will do the same.

“The volunteer programme will allow people from all over Scotland to get involved. We’re a very friendly people and this is a great way of channelling that, so our visitors get the warmest welcome we can give them.”.

To find out more about lending a helping hand at the games, visit http://www.glasgow2014.com/join/volunteering .