A BASINGSTOKE ice skater has been awarded funds to support the next three years of her career.

Danielle Harrison British number one in the National Ice Skating Association (NISA) Junior Ladies national rankings, was selected for the Young Rising Star Development Award, run by NISA.

A total of 16 applications were received, and six skaters have now been chosen to receive £1,000 per year until July 2016 to support the development of their ice skating careers.

The scheme, which is funded by the Athlete Development Legacy Fund, supports young, up and coming NISA skaters who have the potential to become international medallists.

Harrison, who trains at Planet Ice in Basingstoke and attends Everest Community Academy, in Popley, said: “I’m really happy and proud to receive this award, and the funding will be so important for me as I look to progress my career in the sport over the next few years.”

David Hartley, development director at NISA, said: “We understand that achieving success in sport at the highest level comes at a price, and we are keen to support families with funding for competing at international events, expert coaching on and off the ice, or simply competition entry fees.

“It’s about ensuring skaters with the potential to go far in the sport, reach their goals and follow their dreams.

“After careful consideration of all applicants we are delighted to offer this support to these six chosen skaters.

“We would also like to thank everyone that applied. It is a wonderful scheme and can be the gateway to a successful career in the world of ice skating.”

Harrison, who carried the Olympic Torch last year, was presented with a certificate and cheques for the first year of funding at the NISA International Judging System (IJS) Championships held in Sheffield last week.