A LOTTERY-funded charity covering West Devon has seen an increase in enquiries from potential volunteers, in the wake of the Olympics.

Home-Start South Hams, Plymouth and Tavistock, a Big Lottery-funded family support charity, is delighted by the positive impact that seems to have followed the success of the games.

Andrea Chandler, scheme manager said: 'Our home visiting volunteers are our organisation and we are always in need of more enthusiastic people to join our ranks. Anything that raises the public's awareness of the immensely important and rewarding role that volunteers play in society is a great thing and it would be wonderful to think that the community spirit created by the amazing Olympic Games could translate into increased volunteer numbers.'

The charity, which offers one-to-one support to families with a child under five who are experiencing difficulties, is gearing up for its next 10-week, 40-hour volunteer preparation training which starts in September and is hoping that unexpected flurry of interest will help to reach its target number of new recruits for the year.

Zoe Bell, who will be running the training said: 'The training course is always excellent fun to do and there are still spaces if anyone has a few hours a week to spare.'

If you are interested in volunteering and have parenting experience, contact the charity on 01548 854513.