A STUDENT from Basingstoke has been selected for the vast team of helpers at the London Olympics.

Stacey Warner, 20, will be part of an army of willing volunteers who keep everything flowing smoothly behind the scenes, and without whom the event would not be possible.

She said: “I'm working on events services in London for both the Olympics and the Paralympics, which is all about being a friendly face of the Games.

“If you are coming to an event, I will be there with a smile, ready to help. I am really looking forward to being involved, although it still has not hit home that I am going to be at the world’s biggest event.

“I decided to volunteer because it is my ambition to work in events, as that is what my degree is focused on.

“For me and my career, this experience will be invaluable, as well as one of the most enjoyable ways I can think of to spend my summer.

“How many people will be able to tell their grandkids they were actually there, helping it to happen?”

With the original number of applications as high as a quarter of a million, the body of official volunteers has been narrowed down to about 70,000, and Stacey, who studies events management at the University of Chester, and three fellow Chester students were delighted to be confirmed in the final selection.

Volunteers, known officially as “Games Makers” – due to the fact that they are a vital part of making sure the Games can happen – will be responsible for a massive range of duties, from raking sand to greeting the crowds of spectators as they enter the stadium.