VOLUNTEERS for this summer's Commonwealth Games attended a big party at Manchester's Velodrome.

People taking part in the Pre-Volunteer Programme -- including dozens from Bolton -- gathered at the venue to listen to presentations about the multi-sport event.

Thousands of volunteers will be used over the 10-days from July 25 to August 4.

Among those present at the presentation were Bury MP Ivan Lewis, Minister for Young People and Frances Done, Chief Executive of Manchester 2002, the Commonwealth Games organisers.

Cllr John Byrne, Bolton Council's Executive Member for Culture, said: ''The success of the Pre Volunteer Programme has been an outstanding achievement for all concerned, not least the volunteers themselves.

"Their commitment to the programme will herald the successful running of the 2002 Commonwealth Games and today's celebration is in recognition of those achievements''. Games sponsors Adecco and ASDA gave job recruitment and interview advice to volunteers during workshops.

The Pre-Volunteer Programme assists people in gaining new skills and experience and, in the long term, to obtain employment, social and organisational skills. It also equips them to become a Games volunteer.

More than 5,500 people have enrolled on the programme -- exceeding the target of 3000.