More than 120 students from Derby College helped to keep spectators and runners safe during the Olympic torch relay last month.

The students, who all underwent stewarding and door supervisor training as part of their public services’ course, acted as marshals along the route.

They had a wide range of duties including traffic management, maintaining order at key areas along the route and accompanying torch bearers through the city.

Edwin Watkins, a public services lecturer at the College, said: “The students have been working at many local events over the past 18 months to gain experience in event stewarding.

“This was invaluable in qualifying them for an important role in ensuring the smooth running of the torch relay through the city.”

After undergoing special training and work experience at several Derby events, the students have been now guaranteed interviews with G4S, the Olympics Games’ security provider.

So far more than 20 have been offered temporary jobs this summer.

Gareth Edwards, a public services student, said: “We have yet to be told just what we will be doing at the Olympic venues, but it will include security work and checking bags at entrances.

“This will all be great work experience and good for our CVs after College, as well giving us the chance to be involved in a once in a lifetime event.”