Today marks 500 days to go to the start of Rugby League World Cup 2013 in Cardiff and organisers have launched their volunteer recruitment programme.

RLWC2013 kicks off in Cardiff on October 26 2013 when host nations Wales and England take on Italy and Australia respectively and 500 volunteers are required to work across various disciplines in all of the host communities.

Aspiring volunteers should visit the RLWC2013 website for details of how to apply to be part of the action when the participating nations go head to head for a place in the semi-finals double-header at Wembley Stadium in London.

RWLC2013 General Manager Sally Bolton said: “We are looking for 500 enthusiastic members of our host communities to support the event as volunteers. With the 500 in 500 programme, we’re offering the chance to be involved in a ‘hands-on’ way in what we believe will be the best Rugby League tournament there has ever been.

“Volunteering is now a major part of any big international sports event and this will be a win-win for us and the lucky 500 people who are chosen to represent RLWC2013. We will provide top level opportunities to be involved at some great games like the opening matches at the Millennium Stadium, all the way through to the final at Old Trafford.”

Iestyn Harris, coach of Wales, is looking forward to the challenge his team will face at the Millennium Stadium next year. He said: “The opening fixture of RLWC2013 when Wales play Italy in the Millennium Stadium will be the biggest game this group of players has ever played. When you think of it that way 500 days doesn’t sound very far away.”

The tournament also visits France and Ireland as RWLC2013 looks to help the game develop in Europe.

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