BUDDING athletes in Dorset could get a funding boost to help them on their way.

Local sports provider Everyone Active is calling on aspiring stars to apply for funding and support as part of its Everyone Active Sporting Champions scheme, a talent development programme.

It has previously been championed by Olympian Colin Jackson.

It is the third year that Everyone Active, which operates a number of different centres in partnership with North Dorset District Council, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council and the Borough of Poole, has run the scheme.

Sporting Champions helps young athletes to achieve their potential by offering them access to high-quality training facilities, financial support and expert advice. From grassroots competitors through to Olympic medallists, it has already aided more than 300 people on their sporting journeys.

Successful candidates are awarded with bronze, silver or gold sponsorship packages. All athletes are provided free access to Everyone Active’s centres, and those on the higher tiers can also receive a sponsorship grant of up to £5,000 to help towards training and competition costs.

Participants are also given exclusive opportunities to join mentoring sessions led by some of Britain’s most influential sports stars. Last year, scheme ambassador and Olympic medal winner, Colin Jackson, hosted a session offering advice on topics including interview techniques, time management and training schedules.

Duncan Jefford, director of Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme, said: “Since we launched the scheme in 2016, we have invested over £300,000 in helping the next generation of sports stars to achieve both national and international success.

“We are committed to offering support and funding for athletes from across the district and I would urge local athletes to apply for Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme so that we can help them on their journey.”

An online application form can be accessed from now until Friday, February 16. Visit easportingchampions.com/apply-now