After many months of planning, Games Maker recruitment began in September 2010. We received more than 240,000 applications and interviewed 100,000 people at selection centres across the UK. 

Successful applicants are attended at least three training sessions to make sure they are as prepared as possible for their role. Many volunteers also took part in the London Prepares series test events: an invaluable opportunity to gain experience and a greater understanding of how a large sporting event is staged.

Young Games Makers

Over 2,000 16-18 year olds volunteered through the Young Games Maker programme. Some had roles on the field of play, for example raking the sand during the Beach Volleyball competition at Horse Guards Parade. Working in teams, they each had a team leader to guide them.

Mcdonald’s: The Presenting Partner

As Presenting Partner, McDonald's has used its expertise and UK-wide presence to help attract, select and train the volunteers needed to make the Olympic and Paralympic Games a success. McDonald's will support and celebrate them at every stage of their journey to London 2012, with the aim of leaving an enduring training and volunteering legacy for years to come.

Did you know?

Volunteers have been integral to both Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games since they were used for the first time at London 1948. So in 2012, the volunteer programme will be coming home to the place where it all began.

We want Games Makers to be inspirational, open, respectful, team-focused, distinctive and have a 'can do' attitude.

If you are an employer with employees taking time off to volunteer, you can get advice on how to best manage their time off in these guidelines from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP.