WHEN teenage acro gymnast Jonny Henderson was part of a male quartet which won the Acro English Championship, his mum Lorna hailed their best ever performance.

But she also paid tribute to a long-established local organisation which helped her son on his way to success.

“Without the support from Sport Tynedale, Jonny would not be able to reach his goals,” said Lorna.

Jonny received a grant from Sport Tynedale to cover the basic essentials of the costs of competition.

For decades, the voluntary-led organisation has provided financial support for sports men and women to develop their skills at county level or higher.

Now Sport Tynedale is calling on potential candidates to apply for the funding. A maximum grant of £250 can go a long way, covering the costs of kit, travelling and accommodation, event entries and coaching fees.

Sport Tynedale chairman Edward Heslop said: “Talent and hard work goes a long way in sport, but it can cost a lot of money to compete and achieve your goals.

“We’ve supported numerous people over the years, and we just want to get the message out there that we are here to help.

“If you’re looking to develop your skills at county level or higher, regardless of your chosen sport, you are a potential candidate, and should apply for a grant.”

The organisation, which also hosts the annual Sport Tynedale Awards, receives financial backing from a range of sources, including town and parish councils, schools, and sports clubs, which are affiliated to Sport Tynedale.

Applicants can qualify for grant funding if they are a member of an affiliated club, or if their school or local council is affiliated to Sport Tynedale.

Grants are also available to help volunteer coaches achieve recognised coaching qualifications.

Edward added: “We are grateful to the backing we receive from councils, schools, and sports clubs. By contributing to Sport Tynedale, they are enabling residents, pupils and members to access this crucial funding.” More information about grant funding can be found at www.sport-tynedale.co.uk