ELITE athletes across the county have a golden chance of receiving a financial boost worth £1,000 as part of a renowned sporting grant scheme.

For the fifth year, Wiltshire Council has pledged £10,000 to be shared among ten roving sportspeople who need the money to cover essential equipment and training costs.

Those athletes which compete at a national level in an Olympic or Paralympic sport will reap the benefits.

Salisbury’s mountain bike orienteering champion Emily Benham, pictured left, and orienteer Lucy Butt were recipients of the grants last year.

Wiltshire Council Leader Jane Scott, pictured right, said: “An award makes a huge difference providing much needed financial support. It can help towards the cost of attending national or international level competitions, events and training camps.

“By supporting Wiltshire’s talented athletes we are hoping to create a lasting legacy for many years to come.”

“And we also hope that these grants from Wiltshire Council will encourage others to help support local athletes.

“Every penny helps support them with their training, travel and equipment.”

Go to www.fundingfutureolympians.org.uk to apply.

The deadline closes at 5pm on Monday, January 26.

  • Ten young athletes last month were awarded cheques for £500 after being named in the Future Olympians and Paralympians Sports Scholarship grants list.