SPORTING talent will be given the chance to thrive with East Hampshire District Council’s (EHDC) elite sports grant.

The grant, of up to £600, helps sportsmen and women in their efforts to achieve county, national, international and perhaps even Olympic honours.

East Hampshire athletes, aged between 10 and 24, can now apply for the award to help toward the cost of travelling, coaching, qualifications, or equipment.

The first grants, awarded last April, totalled almost £6,000 with 17 athletes receiving the award.

Athletes who apply for the grant are automatically considered for the annual East Hampshire Sports Awards, held every February at Old Thorns Hotel in Liphook.

Julie Butler, portfolio holder for customer service, said: “We are very lucky to have such high-calibre athletes in the district and I am so glad that EHDC offers these grants and goes above and beyond to support them in their quest for success.

“Sport can be very expensive when competing at a high level, with competitions taking place in all areas of the country or even the world.”

This round of funding closes on December 30.

For more details or to apply, visit easthants.gov.uk/elite-sports-fund.

Alternatively, call sports development officer Kirsty Cope on 01730 234015 or e-mail [email protected].