Organisers of Velothon Wales are on the hunt for more than 500 volunteers who are needed to help support Wales' first ever closed-road cycling event. From handing out bananas to helping repair punctures, organisers are calling for enthusiastic and hardworking individuals to join the team of 'Velonteers' that will provide essential on-the-ground support to make Wales' biggest ever cycling event a success. 

Velothon Wales, which takes place on Sunday 14 June, promises to deliver a weekend of cycling on a scale that Wales has never before witnessed. 

More than 15,000 riders will tackle 50km or 140km routes which start in Cardiff city centre and takes in some of South Wales's most breath taking scenery, before watching some of the world's best pro teams take on an extended course in the UCI classified 1.1 professional road race. 

Velothon Wales' event director, Andrew Taylor explained: "The success of Velothon Wales will rely heavily on a strong team of volunteers who will form the backbone of the event. We are looking to fill a number of roles, from manning feed stations, welcoming visitors to Wales, handing out medals and giving directions to supporters. It's a great opportunity to boost your CV, get some valuable volunteering experience and help contribute to the success of what promises to be an amazing event for Wales." 

Taylor continued: "We are on the look-out for people who are enthusiastic, passionate about sport and willing to get stuck in. Velothon Wales will be an unmissable event and volunteering is a great opportunity to play a part in its success." 

The closed-road route will start in Cardiff city centre before taking riders through the beautiful Welsh countryside to tackle two challenging climbs; Caerphilly Mountain and The Tumble, which also featured in last year's Tour of Britain. There will also be a shorter, less challenging 50km closed-road route. 

All Velonteers will be invited to attend a training session before the event to meet key members of the team and learn more about their role. Velonteers will also receive a commemorative t-shirt and a certificate of thanks. Bursaries are also available for sports clubs and groups who can provide over 10 Velonteers. 

To get involved you need to be over 18, available on Sunday 14 June and have lots of energy and enthusiasm. Simply visit www.velothon-wales.co.uk to apply by the end of April. For more updates follow Velothon Wales on Facebook and Twitter.