TEN lucky sportspeople in Wiltshire who compete at a top sporting level are in with a chance of receiving a financial boost.

Youngsters, aged between eight and 16-years-old who compete in regional or nationally in an Olympic or Paralympic sport, could be given a £500 scholarship grant.

Wiltshire Council launched the new grant in July, following the successful fundraising Business and Sports dinner, which took place earlier this year.

More than £16,000 was raised, providing a foundation fund to support talented athletes across the county.

The funding will help the athletes get access to training, allow them to purchase equipment and cover transport costs.

Jonathon Seed, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for leisure, said: “I am delighted we are able to offer these young local athletes help to fund their fledgling careers.

The dedication they show to their sports is amazing, and I hope these grants will give them the extra boost they need to compete at the highest possible level.” The fund was opened for the new scholarship applications in July and closed on September 19.

It received 25 applications from athletes across the county in sports including athletics, archery, football, swimming, rugby, volleyball, gymnastics and cycling.

The winning recipients will be named at the Wiltshire Sports Awards on Wednesday.

For more information visit www.fundingfutureolympians.org.uk.