Funding helps Wigan’s gifted young athletes to become the stars of tomorrow

The application process has now reopened for the next round of funding, and grants of up to £500 are available

Written by I Love MCR
Last updated 2 years ago
Community, Sport, Wigan

A selection of Wigan Borough’s most promising young athletes have been awarded grants from Wigan Council’s Believe Talent Fund following the latest round of applications.

Included in the group of 10 are wrestling Commonwealth Games hopeful Harvey Ridings and Adam Berry from Aspull Olympic Wrestling Club and Wigan Best swimmer, Evie Cutter.

From athletics, Pentathletes Amy Hewitt and Lauren Hewitt from Leigh Harriers and Bethany Sara Pendlebury from Trafford Athletics Club have also received funding.

Cyclists from a variety of disciplines have also made the list.

These include track cyclist Emily Burgess, Speedway cyclist Reece Pollitt from Astley & Tyldesley Cycling Club and John White from North Cheshire Clarion Juniors and BMX racer Oliver Cope from Mid Lancs BMX Club.

“I have been involved with the Believe Talent Fund and sports awards since its inception and see it as a key priority for sport in the Borough,” said Councillor Chris Ready, lead cabinet member for communities.

“The fund is all about supporting the borough’s gifted young athletes in becoming the stars of tomorrow.

“They are each fantastic ambassadors for sport in Wigan Borough and we look forward to watching them develop as we have so many other young athletes that have benefited from the funding.”

Past recipients of the grants include Olympic silver medallist Keely Hodgkinson, Wheelchair Rugby star Danny Dawoud and Olympic high jumper Emily Borthwick.

The application process has now reopened for the next round of funding and will close on 31st May.

The Believe Talent Fund is for young athletes between 11 and 24 who live in the borough who may require financial assistance to participate.

Grants of up to £500 are available to help with costs such as travel, accommodation, competition fees and equipment, for example. Emergency funding (up to £200) for genuine emergencies or time-critical requests is also available.

You can find out more about the Believe Talent Fund and apply for funding here.

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