Sport lovers in west London have the chance to train as referees and umpires in 2012 Olympics or Paralympics games.

Londoners aged 16 and over are being offered the opportunity to become sports officials in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics with a skills development programme to support grass roots sport, run by the London Development Agency and Sport England.

‘Official Sports London’ works with national governing bodies of one of 17 Olympic or Paralympic disciplines to help people gain a recognised qualification and 15 hours officiating experience in roles including being a referee, umpire, line judge, scorer and timekeeper.

And those with appropriate national experience may even be given the chance to improve their skills to the level that they might be eligible for a role at the 2012 Games.

Phil Smith, Sport England’s Director of Sport, urged sports enthusiasts to get involved. He added: "You don’t need to be a top player or athlete, you just need enthusiasm and a commitment to making a difference – so that you can help other Londoners get into sport.”

So far 17 people have completed the programme with around 100 people signed up. They include former Paralympian Justin Frishberg, 37, from Harrow, who has completed a Wheelchair Rugby Entry to Officiating Course.

He said: “Every sport needs officials and it is important that people are given the support so they can get involved.

"My sport, wheelchair rugby, is just a great environment to be around and anyone thinking of getting involved should come down and watch a games to see how exciting and enjoyable it is. After playing for so long I want to stay involved through refereeing and Official Sports have given me the opportunity to do that.”

Tom Russell, Group Director for Olympic Legacy at the London Development Agency, said: “Increasing training opportunities and developing grassroots sport participation are fundamental parts of providing a legacy now from the 2012 Games. With sports governing bodies needing more and more officials there is a real opportunity for Londoners to get trained and get involved."

Seb Coe, Chair of London 2012 Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games said: “Official Sports is helping to realise our vision of the 2012 Games to encouraging more young people to take up sport. With more qualified officials the opportunities in the capital will increase for well organised and ultimately more enjoyable grassroots competition for athletes and spectators alike.”

If you are over 16-years-old, live in the 33 London boroughs and are interested in taking part in Official Sports visit www.officialsports.org or email admin@officialsports.org or call 020 7749 9173.