SPORTING stars of the future could get a grant to help their training from Wiltshire Council.

Applications forms are now available for people of all ages to apply for money and must be returned by January 30.

A Wiltshire Council spokesman said: "Now in its sixth year the Funding Future Olympians and Paralympians Elite Athlete grant is open once again for applications.

"Working in partnership with local businesses, Wiltshire Council has given out 52 grants to support rising sports stars through the Funding Future Olympians and Paralympians Foundation.

"Thanks to the success of the annual Legacy Business and Sports Gala dinner, launched in 2013, more than £50,000 has been raised for the foundation to support elite athletes. Grants of £1,000 have helped these rising sports stars to access training and competitions, as well as purchasing equipment and covering transport costs to national and international events."

Previous recipients of a grant include Paralympians Stephanie Millward and Aaron Moores, as well as current world champions Emily Benham and Hannah Brown.

People of any age who are competing at a national level or above in any sport recognised by Sport England are invited to apply. The deadline for applications is Monday 30 January 2017 at 5pm. For more information, the criteria and the application form go to www.fundingfutureolympians.org.uk.

Next year’s Business and Sports Gala Dinner is on March 16.