Caroline set for ‘lifetime’ experience (From Ilkley Gazette)

Caroline set for ‘lifetime’ experience

3:29pm Thursday 26th July 2012 in Local news By Jonathan Redhead

An Olympic volunteer says she is ready for a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience after heading to London yesterday.

Caroline Leeming, from Ilkley, will spend ten days working in the ‘transport hub’ Canary Wharf during the 2012 Games, which start tomorrow, organising transportation for some of the competition’s dignitaries and sponsors.

And although she will not be dealing directly with any of the thousands of athletes taking part, Mrs Leeming is hoping her experiences will help her get a slice of what is commonly known as ‘the Greatest Show on Earth’.

“I just thought it would be nice to be involved,” said Mrs Leeming, 59, who applied to become a volunteer about a year ago.

“I know it’s a cliche but it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I fancied doing something. This is the first time I’ve ever done anything like this, though.”

Mrs Leeming works at the Ilkley Moor Medical Practice, and believes her administration skills and dealing with people helped her earn her role.

But she is also keen to get a look at some of the sporting action going on in London during her time in the capital.

“I have been lucky enough to receive a ticket for the rehearsal of the opening ceremony before the actual event takes place, so I will be in the Olympic Stadium for that,” she said.

“I’ve also got some tickets for the women’s handball quarter-finals and the men’s cycling road race is my first port of call to see our newly-crowned Tour de France champion Bradley Wiggins whizzing through Richmond Park.”

Another member of staff from the medical practice will also be at the Olympics Games, but in a professional capacity.

Dr Jonathan Greenwell will be working with Great Britain’s diving team during competition.

l See page eight for a further focus on the London 2012 Olympic Games.