Trevor Adds More Experience!

West Ham United playing legend and now Club Director Trevor Brooking has volunteered to share his skills and experiences to help others by joining The Experience Corps - and is urging other over 50s to join him!

Trevor, aged 54, is the latest of more than 80,000 people who have committed to giving their time through The Experience Corps. Backed by the Home Office, The Experience Corps is dedicated to encouraging people aged 50 and over to share their time and talents to the benefit of their local community.

The Experience Corps has thousands of volunteering opportunities with organisations all around the country. One such partner organisation is Sport England and, as his volunteer placement with The Experience Corps, Trevor Brooking is going to support Sport England's Volunteer Investment Programme and the DCMS funded Step into Sport project.

In his first assignment Trevor guided pupils from St.Edward's Primary School, Upton Park, through a practice session at the Boleyn Ground.

Says Trevor: "There are hundreds of children that want the opportunity to try different sports and all we need is the volunteers to help us run the clubs. I met a girl's football team recently that had a dedicated teacher and lots of enthusiasm but all they needed was somebody who knew the rules to act as a referee.

"Even if you don't have a basic knowledge of a sport there are also lots of clubs that need help with administration, catering and volunteer drivers and through organisations such as The Experience Corps people can find out how their skills can make a difference in their area."

Chief Executive of The Experience Corps Maggie Semple says: "We are dedicated to helping those aged 50 plus realise that their skills, whatever they may be, are incredibly valuable. Many people may feel they have nothing to offer but we hope through initiatives like Step into Sport, and the support of high profile celebrities like Trevor Brooking, we can show that there is an opportunity suitable for everyone."

If you would like to help a local sports club in your area contact The Experience Corps free on 0800 10 60 80 or visit www.experiencecorps.co.uk