SPORTING stars of the future could receive a grant to help them on the path to the elite level thanks to Wiltshire Council.

For the seventh straight year, The Funding Future Olympians and Paralympians Elite Athlete grant is open for applications.

Wiltshire Council's grant programme the county's top sports stars to access training and competitions, purchase equipment and cover the cost of transport to regional, national and international events.

Previous grant recipients have included Paralympic gold medallists Stephanie Millward and Aaron Moores, Commonwealth medallist Laura Halford, world champion Hannah Brown and 18-year-old high jumper Tom Gale.

“Having this support has been invaluable in what has been an important year for me. I won a bronze medal at the European Junior Championships earlier this year," said Mr Gale.

“Funding has allowed me to focus on my training, which has enabled me to improve my personal best to 2.30 meters, on my way to becoming England senior champion.

“Last month I was told that I have been selected for Team England for the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia. I’m very grateful for the support I have received and I hope these grants can benefit more athletes who are seeking to reach their goals.”

The foundation is supported by local businesses through the successful annual Business and Sports Gala fundraising dinner, which has enabled more than £62,000 in funding to be allocated to support both elite athletes and younger sports people identified as potential stars of the future.

The partnership between Wiltshire Council and local businesses has supported 37 individuals with an elite athlete grant, with numerous grant recipients achieving national and international success at the highest level of their sport.

People of any age, who are competing at a national level or above in any sport recognised by Sport England, are invited to apply.

The deadline for applications is January 29 at 5pm. For more information, the criteria and the application form, go to www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-supporting-athletes