Why I can't wait to volunteer at London 2012

Shh! Marie Claire's senior designer Ann Ho is moonlighting...as a volunteer for the London 2012 Olympics! We get the inside track on what's involved and how she's doing her bit for Team GB at the games

Shh! Marie Claire's senior designer Ann Ho is moonlighting...as a volunteer for the London 2012 Olympics! We get the inside track on what's involved and how she's doing her bit for Team GB at the games.

I've always loved watching the Olympics and for me, London is the best place to be in the world. So when the opportunity came up to share my passion for my home town with thousands of visitors from around the world, I went for it.

I put myself forward as a volunteer and was delighted when I was picked to be part of the press operations team at the Paralympics!

ANN'S TOP OLYMPIC HANGOUTS - SEE THE MARIE CLAIRE TEAM'S TOP EAST LONDON PICKS

I've only had e-training so far as I couldn't attend the first team day, but I'll be picking up my uniform in a couple of weeks.

I've already seen the pictures and I'm not sure it's totally 'me' but I was excityed to discover that there are matching trainers, bag and even an umbrella!

LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC MEMORABILIA

I'm volunteering for 10 days so will be off work for two weeks - it's going to be busy but I love a challenge and the chance to work with different people (no offence Team MC!) will more then make up for it. Plus all volunteers were given the opportunity to win tickets for the technical rehearsal of the opening ceremony - and I won!

MEET TEAM GB AHEAD OF THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPICS

Living in Stepney Green, one of the Olympic boroughs, I feel like I've already benefited from London 2012 and the regeneration of East London. Many of the shop fronts have been spruced up, the streets are clean (!), and the place looks cared for.

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPICS

Being involved in the Olympics has made the experience of living in the host city extra special - it really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

THE MARIE CLAIRE TEAM'S TOP EAST LONDON HANGOUTS

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPICS