FUTURE sporting stars could receive a boost to help them achieve national, international or Olympic honours.

Athletes are being invited to apply for funding support from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s (BDBC) sports grant aid scheme.

Basingstoke Sports Council administers the scheme which is open to athletes aged between 10 and 24 years old.

Applicants must live in the borough and be at least county representative standard within their sport.

If successful, the grants can be used to help with everything from travelling and coaching expenses to competition entry fees, equipment and clothing requirements.

Scholarships and support are also available from facilities including Basingstoke Sports Centre, the Aquadrome and Tadley Pool.

BDBC cabinet member for communities and community safety, councillor Simon Bound said: “With so much sporting talent among the young people in our borough, we are delighted to support them as they strive to succeed in their chosen sports through the Sports Grant Aid Scheme.”

“I hope local athletes will take up this great opportunity of financial support as they go for gold in the sporting arena. “ To tie into the next wave of funding grants, nominations for the popular Basingstoke and Deane Sports Awards are now open.

Coordinated by Basingstoke Sports Council, the sports awards evening will be held on February 23. 2018, to celebrate the achievements of sports clubs, teams, coaches, officials, volunteers, schools and individuals.

Grant aid applicants are automatically considered for the awards and it is hoped that clubs will nominate their members across several of the categories.

Cllr Bound added: “The Basingstoke Sports Awards always attract nominations for a host of inspiring sports people who are dedicated to their game – and it is wonderful to celebrate all their achievements – and those of the volunteers and coaches who work tirelessly for the borough’s sports clubs.”

The deadline for both the grant applications and sports award nominations to be received is Saturday, 2 December.

For application and nomination forms, go to basingstoke.gov.uk/sportsawards.