VOLUNTEERS from all walks of life are signing up to help the Bournemouth Wheels Festival run smoothly.

So far organisers have welcomed festival makers, ranging from a retired GP and a physiotherapist, to a pub manager and radio presenter.

But more are needed to be part of the team. The Festival Makers scheme is similar to that which saw thousands of people sign up as for the London 2012 Olympics.

Volunteers will initially help out at the town’s first Wheels Festival, due to take place from May 24 to 26.

It is expected to attract 360,000 people to the town and attractions will include a motorbike pier jump, monster trucks and rally car demonstrations.

Festival makers will also be needed later in the year for the Air Festival and the Arts by the Sea Festival.

“Volunteers will be more than spectators – they will be at the centre of the action and excitement, working behind the scenes to help put on one of Bournemouth’s brilliant major events,” said promotions officer Hayley Paterson.

“It will not only be an amazing experience and a proud moment for them representing their town but they will also have a good story to tell about how they were there and involved.”

Full training, including information about security and public safety, will be given and volunteers will receive customer service training.

The deadline for entries is March 26 and volunteers must be aged 18 or over and prepared to take part for a minimum of seven hours.

They are expected to be proud of and passionate about Bournemouth, strong team players and happy to help people.

You can apply online at bournemouthwheels.co.uk/festival-makers.