With this summer's Olympic Games in Greece fast approaching, recruitment specialist Blue Arrow is asking local companies to join a new initiative that provides flexible employment opportunities for elite athletes in training.

The company with a branch in Milton Road is participating in a nationwide partnership with the British Olympic Association (BOA) as an official recruitment partner for Team GB, and a groundbreaking three-year athlete support programme known as the Olympic and Paralympic Employment Network (OPEN).

OPEN enables athletes to maintain contact with the world of work in their local area while earning money as they train.

In turn, local businesses, it is suggested, will benefit from a motivational role-model for staff, while supporting British sporting excellence at its highest level. According to Gerry Veitch, manager of the Swindon branch of Blue Arrow: "The chance to become an OPEN member company is an outstanding opportunity to support the British team.

"Subject to athlete availability, employers are afforded the chance to take on a staff member who can demonstrate a high level of commitment and enthusiasm in their daily lives, and who can inspire fellow colleagues."

Simon Clegg, chief executive of the BOA, added: "The partnership with Blue Arrow means that the programme will become truly national and will provide dedicated support from experienced recruitment professionals for both athletes and member organisations."

For further information, call 0845 075 5008 or visit the website www.blue arrow.co.uk/OPEN