2012 organisers launch search for new generation of umpires

HUNDREDS of Londoners are being invited to train as referees, umpires and scorers in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics.

Up to 600 bursaries will be offered over the next three years to create officials who will be qualified in 17 Olympic and Paralympic sports.

Boosting the number of sports officials is an important aspect of the legacy of the London Olympics and is one of the goals of the Evening Standard's 2012 sports legacy campaign.

The programme - Official Sports London - is open to anyone aged 16 or more and is run by Sports England and the London Development Agency.

Successful applicants will be matched with one of the participating sports governing bodies for an intensive course and will have to officiate for at least 15 hours before qualifying.

Kate Hoey, the Mayor's commissioner for sport, said: "As well as the obvious sporting benefits, the skills learnt as an official are an asset in many other facets of life."

Among graduates from a pilot scheme is Luana Valentini, a building site manager who is training to become a volleyball line judge.

Ms Valentini, 32, from Sutton, recently officiated at an international held in Tooting between Australia and New Zealand.

She said: "Volleyball is a fantastic sport and I wanted to get involved in supporting it in the UK. I hope others will sign up and see how rewarding it is."