A recruitment drive has started to sign-up 100 Olympic ambassadors in the borough.

The Havering 2012 Ambassador programme is a volunteering initiative which brings people together before the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Havering Council has partnered with Havco (Havering Association of Voluntary and Community Organisations) to deliver the scheme.

They hope to recruit 100 volunteers before the Games, and maintain the network for future events.

Some of the volunteers helped out at events over the Diamond Jubilee weekend.

The Olympic Torch Relay on July 22 will see them stewarding at areas including The Green, Hornchurch; Romford Market Place; and Rainham Village.

Julie Tripp, a Havering 2012 Ambassador, said: “I am looking forward to being an Ambassador for many years to come, as I love to help other people and get a lot of satisfaction from seeing other people feeling happy.

“I also enjoy getting into the community spirit.

“I am really looking forward to attending my next event, which is the Olympic Torch going through Rainham Village on Sunday 22 July at 3.40pm.”

Cabinet Member for culture, towns and communities, Cllr Andrew Curtin, said: “The Havering 2012 Ambassadors demonstrate everything that is great about our borough.

“People are prepared to offer their free time helping others and the community.

“I really hope we can reach our target of 100 volunteers by the time of the Games. Echoing the wartime message, your borough needs you.

He added: “The Ambassadors have already been a great help during our Diamond Jubilee celebrations. I am sure they will continue to help residents and visitors to the borough, especially during the Olympic Torch visit.”

All Ambassadors take a 2.5 hour induction training workshop covering event safety, customer service, diversity and equality and teambuilding.

The next training sessions are Tuesday July 10, from 6.30-9pm and Wednesday July 11, from 10.00am to 12.30pm at the Town Hall, Main Road, Romford for people wanting to volunteer at the Torch Relay events.

Anyone interested in signing up should visit www.havering.gov.uk/2012, and click on ‘volunteering’ or call Wendy Reilly at Havco on 01708 742 881.