Together with Littlehampton Sports Forum, Littlehampton Town Council has given a total of £2,000 shared amongst three local sportspeople to help them achieve sporting excellence.

The Financial Awards for Sporting Excellence is an annual scheme which is open Littlehampton residents who require additional financial support towards training, competition fees, transport, accommodation and equipment. Aimed at those already playing at county level, the fund enables such individuals to develop their potential and to progress further in their chosen sport.

This year grants were given to:

Sienna Marodeen – A 15-year-old gymnast competing at County level and regularly reaching the high ranks. Sienna won bronze at the Sussex Championships and the funds will go towards her training fees which will enable her to continue on the National Grades pathway.

Grace Bennett – A 13-year-old skateboarder competing at national level having had the opportunity to compete alongside Bombette Martin who skated for Great Britain in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Grace trains with the Skateboard GB Pipeline Project and the funds will assist her in buying equipment for her sport.

Héctor Hall – A 9-year-old tennis player competing at County level and regularly reaching high ranks. Hector will use the funds for additional coaching so that he can continue to compete at higher level events.

Councillor Sean Lee, Chair of the Sports Forum, said: “Assisting local sporting talent is a significant aspect of the Council’s work in the community and these grants often mean that sportspeople can continue to excel in their chosen sport and fly the flag for Littlehampton. I was particularly impressed by the sporting diversity in this year’s applicants, all with big potential to reach national competitions and already being great role models for other young people in our town.”