RISING sports stars from Tyldesley, Atherton, Astley, Hindley Green and Golborne have received a funding boost.

Cyclists Laura and Adam Watson, Emily Burgess and Junior Jackson, water polo players Emmie Rose Eastwood and Stephanie Whittaker, karate ace Rachel Traverse and synchronised swimmer Ellie Rose Alder are among 11 youngsters from the borough who will benefit from the latest round of the Believe Talent Fund.

The funding from Wigan Council helps talented youngsters to compete on the international stage, aiding with travel, accommodation, competition, training and equipment costs.

Cllr Jim Moodie, lead member for leisure at the council, said: “These young athletes are fantastic ambassadors for sport in the Wigan borough.

“We are delighted that we can continue to support aspiring local athletes through the Believe Talent Fund.”

Siblings Laura, 16, and Adam, 18, from Tyldesley, will both compete in the cycle speedway ashes series in Australia before taking part in the individual world championships.

Emily, 12, from Astley, is also a cycle speedway starlet and will be using the funding to help her compete in the women’s national league.

Junior, 15, from Atherton, cycles for Mossley CRT and will compete in national leagues on the Olympic Development Programme.

Emmie Rose and Stephanie, both 16, will represent Great Britain in the European water polo championships in Serbia.

Rachel, 15, from Golborne, will compete in England karate tournaments and take part in national training camps.

Ellie Rose, 12, from Hindley Green, will take part in the synchronised swimming Beacon Programme, with a view to progressing to England selection.

The Believe Talent Fund, which has already supported 33 young athletes, is open to 11 to 24-year-olds.

Recipients receive up to £500 as part of the council’s Deal for Communities Investment.

For more information about the funding visit inspiringhealthylifestyles.org/wigan/services/believe-talent-fund.