THOUSANDS of volunteers celebrated their part in the Commonwealth Games at a celebrity-studded party.

More than 8,000 people were given a collective pat on the back for volunteering their time to help out with the Games, which start in July.

The "Celebrate Crew 2002" event in Manchester was the only time all the volunteers could be in the same place for a big party.

Volunteers were treated to a speech congratulating them on their forthcoming hard work by the Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward, who is the president of the Commonwealth Games Federation.

They were entertained by comedian Ted Robbins and TV celebrity Matthew Kelly who was hosting the evening, and the lead singer of -eople, Heather Small, provided the musical finale.

Sports stars including Steve Cram, Roger Black and disabled athlete Tanni Grey-Thompson also attended the glittering night of entertainment and tried to chat to as many volunteers as possible.

Bolton volunteer Champa Halai was thrilled to be invited to the party and cannot wait for the Games to start.

Champa, aged 22, of Green Lane, Great Lever, has landed one of the most prestigious voluntary roles. She is part of the Commonwealth Games Association Relations team and will be looking after the entire party of Indian delegates. Champa, who is a business studies teacher, said: "As soon as I heard about the Games I wanted to get involved. I'm not a sports fan, just an organisational freak!

"I am really looking forward to the whole thing, especially because there was such a great buzz here tonight. My family are very proud of me."

Champa, who speaks Hindi and Gujerati, will have three volunteers working under her and will be responsible for the safe arrival, stay and departure of the Indian party, including athletes, VIPs and administration staff.

Host Matthew Kelly, who was born in Manchester, said: "The atmosphere here is sensational and, as a local boy, I'm very proud to have been asked to host the party."

Steve Cram, who will be commentating on the Games, said: "I am sure Manchester will do a fantastic job hosting the event.

"The Commonwealth Games were always important to me as an athlete and there is an added importance if they're being held in your own country."

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