ATHLETES in Bracknell are being urged to apply for funding and free access to facilities at their local leisure centres as part of a scheme.

Everyone Active, an operator of local leisure facilities is encouraging sport enthusiasts to apply for the funding as part of their Everyone Active Sporting Champions scheme.

The scheme has helped over 800 local athletes to achieve their full potential by offering them access to training facilities, providing financial support and giving them expert advice.

Duncan Jefford, director of Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme, said: “We are proud to have invested over £500,000 in helping upcoming athletes up and down the country to achieve their goals and continue in their sporting career. “

Athletes who apply for the funding will also be given free access to Everyone Active centres across the country.

In the Bracknell Borough they operate in Bracknell Leisure Centre, Coral Reef Waterworld and Downshire Golf Complex.

Those who are on a higher tier of the programme can receive a sponsorship grant of up to £5,000 to help with their training costs.

Duncan added: “We have exciting plans for the future of the scheme, and I would encourage any athletes from Bracknell that are looking not just for funding but also mentoring for their future sports career to apply for Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme.”

The scheme also provides upcoming athletes with the opportunity to attend mentoring sessions, which are led by Britain’s influential sports stars including Olympic silver medallist Colin Jackson.

Last year industry experts and Olympic Paralympic athletes shared their own experiences with aspiring sports men and women.

The scheme can be applied for online and applications will be open from Monday, January 21 to Friday, February 22.

For more information and to find the online application form visit www.easportingchampions.com/apply-now/.