Minister for Sport and the Olympics Hugh Robertson, said: 'This will give those aged 16 to 18 a fantastic opportunity to play a role in the world's greatest sporting event and gain worthwhile experience in volunteering.

BBC: London 2012: Young Games Maker applications open

This was more than a BBC miniseries moment of 1800s England: This was fantastic time travel with my mother and my sister to a different time and a different world.

FORBES: Jane Austen in the 'Hood

"This nation was lifted by winning the Ashes - it was a fantastic feat, as was winning the Rugby World Cup in 2003, " said Caborn.

BBC: Vaughan was awarded an OBE for his part in the 2005 Ashes