The Commonwealth Youth Games wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of volunteers – and the Isle of Man 2011 Games boast an extraordinary team of 600, who are eager to help and easy to spot thanks to their eye-catching orange polo shirts; giving rise to the nickname of the ‘Orange Army’.
The volunteers have gained praise from all quarters for their enthusiasm, helpfulness and cheerful demeanour, including HRH the Earl of Wessex, Vice-Patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation, and renowned England athlete Dame Kelly Holmes.
His Royal Highness paid tribute to the "tireless, smiling, volunteers" at the Opening Ceremony, while Dame Kelly tweeted "Brilliant day today totally shattered but worth 3 days of my time to support @IOMCYG2011 Lovely Manx people! Lovely island, thanks x."
Geoff Karran, Chairman of the Organising Committee said: "I’m so proud of the people of the IOM who’ve rallied round so magnificently.
"We set out to create a friendly atmosphere and the Orange Army have certainly delivered that."
Anderson Lim, a swimmer from Brunei, is one of many athletes praising the volunteers: "They’ve been just great, they were at the airport and they’ve been around the pool.
"They’re always helpful, they’re always kind, it just gives you a good feeling about the place."
Deputy volunteer co-ordinator Jacqui Dawson explains that recruitment began 18 months ago: "Immediately there was a fantastic response.
"Employers have given staff time off and the whole community got behind it.
"Everyone’s been buzzing on the atmosphere of the last few days.
"We’ve had volunteers at the sea terminal, volunteers at the airport, volunteers right through the Games Village – our aim is to always have someone in line of sight no matter where you stand."
Vicky Christian from Onchan, Isle of Man, said: "I’ve absolutely loved it – I’m passionate about the Isle of Man and it’s a real honour to be welcoming young visitors from all over the world to the island.
"I’ve made friends for life here and it’s been such a big part of my life for so many months now. I’m going to feel quite bereft when it’s all over."
For more information, contact: p.murphy@thecgf.com.
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