With John Lewis' recent announcement that it will be backing the 2012 Olympic bid, sports section managers across the business are immersed in bats, balls, trainers and treadmills, ensuring that fitness-mad customers have all the equipment they need to become the next Kelly Holmes or Tim Henman.

The shop might not open until 10am but Lina Franco is already working behind the scenes inside the store at Holmers Farm, High Wycombe.

"The first thing we do is check the diary for any events or promotions that need setting up," she said. "This could be a demonstration of new exercise equipment or a local sports star signing shirts. We then ensure that the department is fully stocked, the tills are filled, then everyone gets into place for the opening."

For most of the day she works with the department manager and sports department team. This might involve assisting the sales team on the shop floor or planning the department's layout with the visual merchandising team as well as helping customers.

"We always have to stay ahead of sporting events and seasonal trends. For example with the Six Nations Rugby we had to stock up with plenty of rugby balls and shirts.

Wimbledon always gets tennis rackets selling too!

"Equally, if it is a new school term we have to be aware what the curriculum sport is so that we get in touch with our suppliers and make sure we have enough hockey sticks, football boots or whatever the sport is."

With the 2012 Olympic bid looming, the store will soon be displaying Olympic themed windows, to be unveiled by a local Olympic hopeful.

Dealing with promotions means liaising with London head office and the visual merchandising team. She said: "This is usually a big job, especially before big sports events when our department will expand into other parts of the shop in anticipation for the sudden rush of inspired wannabe Johnny Wilkinsons.

"The best thing about working in my section is the diversity of jobs that we have.I can go from quite creative work planning promotional activity to dealing with colleagues and managing the stock. Personally I really enjoy helping out on the shop floor. It is great when customers get excited by their purchases. It the kids and middle-aged men who get the most excited."

Lina has always been a keen sportswoman and says working in the specialist department has been "fantastic".

She said: "It has given me the opportunity to learn all about sports that I would never have thought I would be involved in."

The job came after a spell, temping, then as a sales assistant. She eventually put herself forward for the company's Management Development Scheme.

"At 33, I am quite young for my position. I have been really lucky as everyone around me has been really supportive, particularly my department manager."

The day doesn't finish when the store closes. Lisa and the team must cash up and make sure the department is spotless for the following day. A feedback session with the manager completes the day.