SPORT lovers in Bracknell are being encouraged to apply for funding and free access to facilities at their local leisure centre, as the closing date gets closer.

Everyone Active is urging aspiring sport enthusiasts to apply for the funding as part of the Everyone Active Sporting Champions scheme, which closes on Friday, February 22.

The scheme, which has been running for nearly four years has helped over 800 local athletes to reach their sporting potential. It offers them access to training facilities and provides financial support.

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.

“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.”

Sport lovers who apply for the funding are 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.

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

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.

For more information and to find the online application form visit: https://www.easportingchampions.com/.