AS athletes from around the world were busy preparing for this summer's Commonwealth Games so was a physiotherapist from the Vale.

Lorraine Middleburgh, of Vale Home Physio in Evesham, decided to put her skills to good use at the games and was selected to work as a physiotherapist at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow.

The 57-year-old from Greenhill in Evesham is no stranger to big events after being a games maker during the London Olympics and Paralympics.

"I was a games maker in 2012, I worked at the aquatic centre," said Mrs Middleburgh, who has 37 years experience in her field. "I really enjoyed the experience there. When the opportunity came to get involved in the Commonwealth Games I jumped at that.

"I did that about 18 months ago. The training part has been over the past six months, I have been travelling up to Glasgow during that time.

"It's a very friendly city, I hadn't been before. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming, I think they are all excited about having the games here. That's the main feeling that comes across.

"I think there is a wonderful legacy there."

While she is at the games Mrs Middleburgh is based in the Athletes Medical Room and is hoping to meet some of the stars of the games - but not as a result of an injury.

"I am looking forward to meeting the athletes and new challenges and being part of a team again," she said. "The Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome is a new venue so I think that's quite exciting.

"I am hoping to meet Laura Trott and Sir Chris Hoy, I would love to meet him. I am hoping he is going to be visiting.

"Sir Bradley Wiggins is there as well. I am hoping he will come down while he is there and meet the physios. But when I meet them I am hoping they won't be injured.

"Normally I only meet them if they are injured, hopefully they will just come down and be nosey."