Members of the public have been urged by London 2012 organisers to 'plan their Games' as the countdown until the opening ceremony hit the two-year milestone.

London 2012 organising committee chair Sebastian Coe has called on people across the UK to start thinking about how they plan to "make the most" of the "once-in-a-lifetime" event. A campaign designed to recruit 'Games Makers' has launched in order to find volunteers to perform a number of specialist roles at the Games, including scoreboard operators, anti-doping personnel and doctors.

Budding volunteers can also apply to become London Ambassadors, while London 2012's flagship merchandise store has now opened at St Pancras International railway station. Coe said: "There are two years to go until the Olympic Games begin and we want everyone to start planning their once-in-a-lifetime experience in 2012. We are well on track - the venues are nearing completion and our plans are coming together.

"'Now it's the public's turn. How will you spend the summer of 2012? Whether it's buying a ticket, becoming a volunteer, being part of our education or culture programmes - there are hundreds of ways you can get involved." Meanwhile, Newham Council has backed plans for the construction of the 114m (374ft)-high ArcelorMittal Orbit tower, which will occupy a site at the Olympic Park and has been designed by Anish Kapoor.

Paul Brickell, executive member for the Olympics and public affairs at the council, said: "We are excited by the prominent role the Orbit will play in defining the Olympic Park. We believe it could be a crowd-pleaser and help attract visitors to Newham long after the Olympics have gone." The Olympic Delivery Authority will decide the fate of the tower's plans, but consulted Newham Council due to the structure's proposed location within the borough.

Image: David Poultney/LOCOG