MEET the hidden heroes behind the 2016 Homeless World Cup.

More than 120 legacy volunteers – all of whom have been affected by homelessness at some point in their lives – have been supported by staff from Glasgow Life to allow them to be at the heart of the event, both on and off the pitch.

And players from Scotland’s men and women’s teams joined forces to thank the army of volunteers who have welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to the George Square event.

Volunteer Paddy Horner, from Easterhouse, said taking part had been inspirational.

The 30-year-old said: "I have really, really enjoyed it. It's been amazing to be part of something so big and see the difference it makes to peoples' lives.

"There was a guy in goals one day who had lost his feet and I found that inspirational, to see what he was doing despite his problems.

"We think that we have our own problems but when you see something like that you realise how good you have it."

Patrick is currently studying for an SVQ3 at college.

He added: "All the stuff I'm doing now is stuff I never thought I would achieve.

"It's all about making a life for myself now and making myself happy - like taking part in things like this."

Glasgow Times:

Aimed at creating a lasting legacy from Homeless World Cup, the initiative will continue helping recruits to learn new skills though a post-event programme of sports coaching and creative writing.

Volunteers will all receive free membership of the Glasgow Club and cultural opportunities, such as taking part in next year’s Aye Write! book festival.

Leader of Glasgow City Council Frank McAveety said: “The Homeless World Cup has been a truly inspirational event and I’m delighted that we’re not only helping to change the lives of the players competing for glory, but people who have been affected by homelessness right here in Glasgow.

“The heroic efforts of Scotland’s players on the pitch have been rightly cheered by the tens of thousands attending the tournament in George Square.

"They are joined by their competitors from across the world in having their own story of how sport helped to transform their lives.

"Similarly, our legacy volunteers have their own story to tell – and thanks to our partnership with the Big Lottery Fund and the support of staff from Glasgow life – they too have had the opportunity not just to be the heart and soul of the tournament, but to try so much more as they rebuild their lives in the weeks and months ahead.”

The Homeless World Cup 2016 is a partnership between the Homeless World Cup Foundation, Glasgow City Council, delivered by Glasgow Life, and the Scottish Government.

Including the legacy volunteers, a total of 350 people have given their time and effort to support the tournament.

Mel Young, co-founder and President of the Homeless World Cup Foundation, said: “I’m forever grateful to all of our volunteers – they make these events happen and their dedication and commitment knows no bounds.

"That we have so many legacy volunteers who know first-hand the challenges that homelessness presents, brings a new dynamic to this year’s event.

"Sport is changing the lives of every player on the pitch, but initiatives such as this are changing the lives of our volunteers on the legacy programme - it’s something Glasgow can be very proud of.”