SPORTING stars in Basingstoke and Deane are being given the opportunity to apply for grants to help them with their expenses getting to events.

Sports funding through the Sports Grant Aid scheme funded by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and administered by Basingstoke Sports Council will enable athletes to use the money to help with everything from travelling and coaching expenses to competition entry fees, equipment and clothing requirements.

Those people applying for the grant should be of at least county representative standard and between the ages of 10 and 24.

In addition to the Grant Aid scheme, every year Basingstoke Sports Council co-ordinates the annual Basingstoke and Deane Sports Awards to celebrate the achievements of schools, clubs, teams, coaches, officials, volunteers and individuals involved in sports locally. Nominations for the awards are also now open.

This year the borough council has contributed £6,500 to the scheme and a total in excess of £200,000 over the last 31 years.

Grant aid applicants are also considered for the local sports awards as well as for scholarships and support from local facilities including Basingstoke Sports Centre, the Aquadrome, Golf Centre and Tadley Pool.

Cabinet member for borough development and improvement at the borough council, Cllr Rebecca Bean said: “There is so much sporting talent in the borough and the Sports Aid Grant Scheme provides vital support for those young people who live here and are striving to succeed in their chosen sport.

“It is equally important to celebrate the achievements of the many athletes, volunteers and coaches who take part in sport and work so hard throughout the year through the Basingstoke Sports Awards.”

The deadline for grant applications and sports awards nominations is Saturday 7 December 2019.

For application and nomination forms and more information regarding the Sports Grant Aid scheme and Sports Awards, please visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/sportsawards or contact Amy Sambell on 01256 845752 or amy.sambell@basingstoke.gov.uk.