EFFORTS are being made to make sure as many people as possible in Bexley take up volunteering opportunities for London’s 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Staff in the borough’s libraries have already received training from Bexley’s volunteer centre to enable them to help people who want to apply to be a volunteer.

Two volunteering schemes were launched in July, the London 2012 Games Maker scheme and the Mayor of London’s London Ambassadors scheme.

The Games Maker scheme is one of the largest ever UK volunteer recruitment drives, with up to 70,000 people needed across London and the UK in a variety of roles.

London Ambassadors will recruit another 8,000 volunteers.

Games Makers will fulfil a number of specialist roles such as specialist sports, media operations, anti-doping and medical, but general volunteers will also be needed.

Applications to take up a specialist role are already underway and from September 15 people can also begin applying for a general Games Maker position.

These will involve assisting spectators, distributing uniforms, checking tickets and even escorting athletes.

London Ambassadors will be stationed at key transport hubs, visitor attractions and on the capital’s streets, making sure London gives a friendly and helpful welcome to visitors.

Bexley Council leader, Councillor Teresa O’Neill said: "When London was awarded the Games we knew that there would be a fantastic opportunity for Bexley’s residents to volunteer, and I am delighted at the way our libraries and volunteer centre have responded.

“This offers us a real chance to leave a lasting volunteering legacy for the entire borough.”

To find out more about becoming a Games Maker go to london2012.com To apply to become a London ambassador go to londonambassadors.org.uk You can get help at your local library, if you need it, to fill in the online application forms.