Aspiring sports stars have been given the opportunity to earn funding from as part of a talent development programme.

Everyone Active, which helps run Harrow Leisure Centre, Bannister Sports Centre and Hatch End Swimming Pool, is encouraging applications to the Sporting Champions scheme, which offers access to high-quality training facilities, financial support and expert advice.

The programme, which has aided more than 300 athletes since its creation, is structured into bronze, silver and gold tiers – with the highest grants worth up to £5,000.

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 Harrow and I would urge local athletes to apply for Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme so that we can help them on their journey.”

A number of sportsmen and women from the area have benefitted from the programme, including 100m sprinter Dominique Olaniyi, athletics star Emma Hilton and squash players Hasnaat and Zan Farooqi.

Long-distance runner Sami Barakate, and football and korfball champions Meera Khalil, Maya Khalil and Luca Buttinger have also received support.

As well as the chance to gain financial backing, athletes on the scheme are 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.

Applicants should visit www.easportingchampions.com/apply-now/ and fill out the online application form.

For more information about Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme please visit www.easportingchampions.com