[Osem]

lol - I really think it's doing wonders for the nation's spirits (apart from those who'd enjoy gloating if it all went wrong of course).

I saw some of the volunteers interviewed earlier and the experience seems to have inspired them to want to carry on with the volunteering after the games are over. If so, that's great - great for the good causes/communities that'll benefit and good for those young people who may not have jobs or high expectations but may now have realised they are of value and do have things to offer. If nothing else, volunteering looks good on a CV and there's no doubting how it can raise the self esteem and inspire others. If people find this experience has changed their viewpoint and given them some self worth that'll be a valuable added bonus. The games have raised London's profile but I also think the wonderful spirit evident on the streets will do a great deal to win London many friends and future tourists. The army of volunteers have done us proud and it'd be a really nice gesture if their role was offically recognised and rewarded with some free or heavily subsidised use of the facilities.