In a carefully planned and coordinated operation, volunteers got together to ensure that everything went smoothly in Bushy Park Rosemary MacColl of the Friends of Bushy and Home Parks said “Volunteers from the FBHP were ‘called up’ to help the LOCOG stewards with visitor enquiries during the recent Olympic cycle races through Bushy Park. 50 of us, equipped with a bright identity sash and park maps, were positioned at both gates and strategic points along the route and our presence was required on all three days. The Men’s race on Saturday 28th was busy with spectators as it was a lovely day and many brought picnics and made an outing of it. On the Sunday it was a bit quieter for the Women’s race due to the showers.

The best day though was Wednesday 1st for the Men’s time trials with, of course, a chance to see Bradley Wiggins race to gold! Everyone was so excited; the crowds at Hampton Court were huge. When the individual cyclists came through the Park on the last leg before the finish, thousands lined the route down Chestnut Avenue cheering them on.

Most spectators were local so were familiar with the Park but the volunteers did an excellent job dealing with queries and pointing visitors in the right direction. Visitors and spectators were well behaved, as you would expect, with the exception of a few dog owners who ignored the signs to keep their dogs on leads however. Fortunately there were no major incidents. We all felt that it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and a privilege to be part of these exciting Olympic events in this historic and iconic part of London. “ www.fbhp.org.uk Based on information supplied by Richard Sharp.