WOULD-be volunteers interested in helping to deliver Bradford 2025 are being sought.

An online portal has been launched, at Bradford2025.co.uk, where people can register.

Organisers are looking to recruit more 3,500 volunteers to be the 'welcoming faces' of the district during its term as UK City of Culture.

People can volunteer as much, or as little, time as they're able.

They will also have the opportunity to support events taking place across the district this year including the Saltaire 1940s Weekend in June and the following month's Dragon Boat Festival and BD:Festival.

Activities for 2025 are still in the planning stages, but the programme will include work from local, national and international artists, and creatives and cultural organisations from across the world.

Some elements of the programme have been announced, such as Beacon, a touring venue which will host summer performances and live events district-wide.

Volunteers will receive full support and training, which will also cover areas including sight assisted guidance and first aid as well as a chance to gain an accredited City and Guilds Level 2 qualification in customer service.

Anyone aged over 18 can apply.

John Strawson-Rooney, volunteer lead at Bradford 2025, says: "From artists and businesses to community groups, we’re inviting people from across the district to help us celebrate our year as UK City of Culture.

"Our volunteers will join us on our journey to spotlight everything the district has to offer. They will be at the centre of all the action – meeting and greeting, and helping deliver the events that will make our year as UK City of Culture one to remember.

"I really believe that Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture is going to be a game-changing year and our people are our greatest asset. So come and get involved, be part of a passionate community of new friends and join the fun!"

Among the first volunteers is Keighley man Martin Carr.

He says: "To have the UK City of Culture 2025 in my adopted county is spectacular!

"The activities I've already been part of have been exciting, dramatic and fun.

"Bradford 2025 is going to be a tremendous year for everyone in this great district and to be part of the celebrations, and a tiny part of the great team organising and running them, is a privilege."

The volunteering programme is funded by the London 2012 legacy funder, Spirit of 2012.