Heikki c, executive producer of the 2007 Eurovision Song Contest in Helskini spoke on YLE radio show 'Eurovisionradio' today. He announced that over 1000 people have nominated themselves as volunteers to work at the music extravaganza next year.

Heikki Seppälä explained that because of the size and scope of organisation, YLE's own staff would never be able to cope alone with hosting the Contest. An army of volunteers plays a huge role in helping both press and fans at the Eurovision Song Contest every year, from manning the press centre to selling merchandise, to stewarding duties and security around the venue. "The accreditation centre need helpers, we need people to help with transports. Also we need loads of people for access control, as the arena will be divided in separate zones for different categories" Seppälä said. He expects many volunteers to work in the press centre where 1500 members of the press are expected.

Heikki said it is wise to let those capable and enthusiastic who have contacted YLE a chance to do their bit for the project. He told the radio show host, Tarja Närhi, "I am not sure of all contests but I have just finished reading the closing report from Athens where volunteers made up a very important part of the whole organisation so it seems to have been the norm in the last few years".