As we move towards spring and summer, now is a great time to get more involved with Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park - whether it’s volunteering at an event, or giving us your views at a residents’ meeting.

We’re working hard to make sure the park provides real, positive benefits for the people of east London and to do this, we need you.

We’re always looking for more Park Champions - our brilliant volunteers. Last year the team clocked up more than 6,000 hours, whether it was supporting our events, looking after our gardens, or operating our mobility service.

Our beautiful parklands don’t just happen; they are a testament to the hard work of our Park Champion Conservation volunteers. Our friendly Growing Links network gives opportunities for people to get involved on and off the park - perfect for both seasoned and budding gardeners. Last Saturday saw our first group of green-thumbed volunteers learn the skills needed to become a community orchard leader. Future leaders will support the planting, caring for and harvesting of fruit at the stunning new orchard in the heart of the park, at Mandeville Place.

We are always keen to hear from Newham organisations and residents who want to put on an event or activity and we have launched our second round of commissions. We’re looking for a range of projects, from picnics and tea dances to activities like bake-offs, storytelling, walks and talks. The application process closes next Wednesday. With many exciting changes happening over the coming years, not least the Olympicopolis development and our potential new partner the Smithsonian Institution, we want to make sure the views and feelings of residents are heard. Our residents’ meetings are a great forum for you to ask questions and give us your thoughts. Visit queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk/our-story/get-involved