Games Makers are up and running

About 40,000 of what will be a 70,000-strong squad began the first stage of their training. From directing visitors to holding Usain Bolt's kit and greeting athletes at airports, they will play a key role in the Games.

The so-called Games Makers gathered together for the first time at Wembley Arena on Saturday. Having received almost a quarter of a million applications, 2012 organisers' chairman chairman Seb Coe is convinced he has recruited the right ones.

He said: "This day is vital. The people sitting in this room will determine how we are viewed by the rest of the world and I have no doubt that we have the crème de la crème in here.

"I have seen their applications. They're all from very different backgrounds, different skill sets, and I want to thank them all for being here."

The volunteers were in high spirits, cheering when Eddie Izzard, Olympic rowing medallist Sarah Winckless and former athlete Jonathan Edwards took to the stage and models paraded across the platform wearing the Games Makers' uniform.

Sandy Kurek, 25, a badminton development officer from Canada Water, said: "I'll be working at the volleyball at Earls Court, so I'll meet all the athletes at the door, take them to the changing rooms and the courts.

"I've done similar things before so I'm really excited to make use of my skills. I really want to meet the GB squad, or the Brazilian team."

Eleanor Cox, 25, from Wimbledon, said she was proud the Games were being hosted in the capital. The corporate banker, who used to be a women's singles badminton champion until she sustained a back injury, added: "There's a great enthusiasm among all the Games Makers and the volunteer spirit is fantastic.

"It's a great opportunity for people to work together, learn about different sports, and it's a chance for London to shine."

Tali Zglinska-Foster, 21, from Edgware, who will be working as a kitchen supervisor at the Olympic Village, said: "Working at the Olympics is a once in a lifetime opportunity and something to tell your grandkids about.

"I wouldn't have been able to afford the tickets so this is the only way I can take part and I can't wait. Now, I can be there and work there. And what's great is they're hiring people who don't necessarily have the experience and training them free."

Student Ben Carton, 20, and his 17-year-old sister Veronica from Wimbledon, are delighted to be working in retail.

Mr Carton said: "I'm raring to go. I love sport. My whole family applied for Olympics tickets but we didn't get any. Seeing the 100 metres would be a dream come true."