Volunteers call to Bradford Bulls’ supporters (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Volunteers call to Bradford Bulls’ supporters

9:00am Tuesday 16th October 2012 in Bulls By Hannah Postles, T&A Reporter

TEAMWORK: Bradford Bulls are appealing for help from fans to carry out vital everyday work at the club. Pictured are Paul Butterworth and Simon Kenny

Bradford Bulls’ new owners have issued a rallying call for fans to volunteer their time to get the club ready for next season’s Super League campaign.

Bradford restaurant boss Omar Khan and former Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe are asking for supporters to follow the example of “gamesmakers” for the London Olympics by helping the top-flight side by offering their skills in a variety of unpaid roles.

Jobs on offer vary from office work to stadium management, with help needed in administrative support, selling season tickets and answering telephones.

People with DIY and household skills who are willing to work either indoors or outdoors are also needed to get Odsal Stadium in shape for next year.

Bradford South MP Mr Sutcliffe said the idea had been inspired by the work of volunteers during the summer’s Olympic Games and a number of fans had already come forward with offers to help.

“We want to build a community club and this is a way for fans to get involved in every aspect of life at the club.

“People are very patriotic about Bulls and we want supporters to feel a part of it. Fans were asking what they could do at the last fans’ forum and we’ve had offers of help from all over the place.

“It’s building on the fan base we’ve got.”

Vipin Joshi, of the club’s management committee, will co-ordinate volunteers, who will have the support of a member of staff as a supervisor.

Mr Sutcliffe said steps would make sure no volunteers were “exploited”.

A spokesman for supporters’ trust BullBuilder, which is backing the scheme, said: “As well as helping the club, you’ll be getting great experience and the chance to meet fellow fans, make new friends and have a great time.”

Any fan who volunteers will be invited to attend a free family fun day which will be held during the 2013 season.

To volunteer contact Mr Joshi on 08448 711 490 or e-mail vipin.joshi@bradfordbulls.co.uk.