THE search for 15,000 volunteers to work at the 2014 Commonwealth Games launches next week.

And 40,000 people have already shown an interest by contacting the organisers.

Online applications are set to open at 7am on Monday for seven weeks, offering people the chance to be part of the biggest sporting event to come to Scotland.

Glasgow 2014 will need the biggest peacetime deployment of volunteers for a common cause that Scotland has ever seen.

All applications will be reviewed and about 25,000 successful applications will be invited for interviews from April.

About 1000 interviews a week will take place at the purpose-built Volunteer Centre until the end of the year.

No previous experience is necessary for most of the roles, with the emphasis on finding people who are friendly and welcoming.

Those suited to more specialist roles can list their skills on the form, while there is a wide range of general opportunities in areas such as transport, spectator services and sport competition.

After the successful contribution of the Games Makers during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Glasgow 2014 is seeking its own volunteers to help deliver a world class sporting event.

David Grevemberg, Glasgow 2014 chief executive, said: "The volunteers will be at the heart of an unforgettable Games and the huge enthusiasm of those who have taken to social media to express their excitement and interest to volunteer has been overwhelming.

"We have always emphasised that what matters most is a smiling face, a winning attitude and friendly banter – qualities I know Scotland and Glasgow will deliver in abundance."

Applicants need to be 16 or older to apply, be eligible to work in the UK and must be available for at least eight days between July 23 and August 3, 2014, as well as to come to Glasgow for an interview, training and uniform collection ahead of the Games.

Those who pre-registered their interest in volunteering will receive an e-mail on Monday, informing them applications are open, with a link to the application form.

Anyone who needs help with the online application can visit the Volunteer Centre at Commonwealth House in Merchant City, call the contact centre on 030 3333 2014, e-mail contactus@glasgow2014.com or visit any library in Scotland for assistance. To apply see: www.glasgow 2014.com/volunteer

matty.sutton@ eveningtimes.co.uk

Volunteers will be at the heart of an unforgettable Glasgow Games