Some of our staff members have been offered the chance of a lifetime, to take part in the spectacular that is the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Each staff member took part in an audition process last November which tested a number of skills and abilities, including creating a human version of the Olympic rings.

 The lucky staff members taking part are:

• Noëleen Morritt, Learning Disability Lead for Children and Young People,
• Samantha Purser, Senior Occupational Therapist
• Sean McAteer, Senior Sonographer
• Katharine Kay, Specialist Nurse for Children in Care

Since being selected each person has taken part in rehearsals that began in mid-April, to prepare for the production which, while it’s a big surprise, features a theme we all grew up with alongside a modern twist.

Noëleen said: “It’s been an amazing experience, each rehearsal is great fun and I can’t wait for the big day. I’m very excited to be representing the NHS and Croydon Health Services”. 

Samantha added: “The exhausting rehearsals and many personal sacrifices I have made over the past few weeks are completely outweighed by the overwhelming privilege I feel to be involved in the Olympic Opening Ceremony, this is the chance of a life time! I have met so many amazing people who work within the NHS, we are planning the reunion already!”

Samantha Purser in front of the Olympic Park.

The ceremony, which takes place this Friday, will be performed in front of about 80,000, and screened across the world to over one billion people.

John Goulston, Chief Executive, said: “It’s an honour to have some of our staff part of such a big event. Everyone at CHS is wishing them the best luck and we look forward to hearing about it next week.”