Memorable experience for volunteer Pat (From Cotswold Journal)

Memorable experience for volunteer Pat

7:00am Tuesday 21st August 2012 in News

A VALE villager who has been working hard as a volunteer at the London Olympics has told the Journal about her experience.

Pat Graham, of Great Comberton, was stationed at the Excel Arena, giving her a chance to see a wide variety of sports.

She said: “I have been a part of table tennis, judo, weightlifting, fencing and boxing in each arena.

“As I checked in for my Day 1 shift , wearing my volunteer uniform, I felt apprehensive but also a sense of excitement.

“There was much coming and going all day long. I was part of the Events Services Team of volunteers.

“Our role was to direct spectators and provide information for them, always with a welcoming smile, either inside the seating bowl of each arena or in the precinct around it.

“I witnessed a new British record in the weightlifting arena for 18-year-old Zoe Smith who lifted twice her body weight (121 kg). There was such excitement and support for her in the arena.

“It was certainly a memorable, unique experience for me, with tired legs at the end of long shifts, but also the thrill of seeing the athletes and famous visitors and lots of banter with the spectators from around the world.

“The best part was meeting so many wonderful volunteers – it really was the welcoming face of the Olympic Games.”