RISING sports stars in Wiltshire have a couple of weeks left to apply for funding from a scheme designed to help them on their journey to success.

This is the fourth year Wiltshire Council has organised the Funding Future Olympians and Paralympians grant, which provides financial help to local elite athletes.

People of any age who are competing at a national level, or above, in any Olympic or Paralymic sport or a sport recognised by Sport England are invited to apply for a grant. The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday, January 20.

For more information, the criteria and an application form visit wiltshire.gov.uk/fundingfutureolympiansgrant.

* As part of a Legacy for Wiltshire, a council-led partnership which aims to encourage people to keep fit and active, boost the local economy and bring communities together, the council is working with local businesses to support rising sports stars and on March 13 a fundraising dinner will be held in the Atrium at County Hall.

All funding raised from the night will be added to the Funding Future Olympians and Paralympians grants.

Several businesses have already pledged their support through sponsorship and attendance at the dinner and more are being asked to come forward.

The Olympic Legacy Business Dinner will see one-off experiences auctioned as part of the evening, including the opportunity to cycle with Paralympic gold medallist Mark Colbourne and a swimming session with Paralympic silver medallist and four time World Champion Stephanie Millward.

Anyone interested in the various sponsorship packages can email events@wiltshire.gov.uk.