Volunteer enjoyed Olympic experience

Buy photos » Maureen Spinks from Badsey had the time of her life as a Games Maker volunteer during London 2012. (s)

AN OLYMPIC volunteer has spoken of her pride after returning from the London Olympic Games.

Maureen Spinks from Badsey is now back in her home village after working as a Games Maker for sport's biggest showcase event.

Dressed in a distinctive regal purple and red poppy uniform, her main duties included scanning tickets and showing the thousands of enthusiastic spectators to their seats at Horse Guards Palace which was transformed into a beach volleyball arena for the whole 17 days.

In the first week of the competition Maureen had to work long shifts as many matches were sell outs.

Maureen told the Observer she had a great time despite the long and hard hours she was given by Olympic bosses.

"It was an amazing experience," she said. "It was definitely a much different experience to working in an office on a daily basis which I've been used to over the years.

"It was hard work but I was very glad to have the opportunity of helping out and participating in London 2012. It was an experience I'll never forget. The shifts were long and tiring but exhilarating.

"The view I had at Horses Guard Parade certainly had the wow factor with stunning views of the London Eye, Big Ben, The Shard and just about every Government building of importance.

"I even managed to get a glimpse of Prince Harry and David Beckham which was a very surreal moment. I lost count of the number times I was asked to take photos of people against the magnificent backdrop of Whitehall.

"It was great to be with so many people sharing the moments of what was a wonderful games especially for Team GB. It felt a little weird returning back to my normal work on Monday."

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