Witney News - Awards deadline looming

Awards deadline looming

Local people who are talented in sport or the arts but who may be struggling to pay for a course or equipment have just over a month to submit an application to West Oxfordshire District Council for a Sports or Arts Achievement Award.

The deadline for applications is looming up fast having already been extended until Friday, 18th January.

Grants worth from £50 to £250 are available to help develop the potential of those with a talent for arts or sport.

The Sports and Arts Achievement Awards scheme has been running since 1997 and from this year’s budget of £6400 in total, grants have been earmarked so far for talented performers or artists from West Oxfordshire involved in athletics, badminton, cricket, golf, music, rugby, skiing, textile design, weight lifting and wheelchair basketball.

Successful applicants will receive their award cheques at a special presentation evening in March when winners of the Council’s annual Sports Person of the Year and Coach of the Year awards will also be announced.

“The Achievements Awards are all about encouraging young people involved with sport or the arts to make the most of their talents and abilities,” says Cllr Hilary Biles, Cabinet Member for Leisure & Tourism.

“Over the years through the cash grants given out, West Oxfordshire District Council has helped dozens of talented youngsters to scale new heights and we are confident this year’s awards will help recipients move on to even higher levels in their chosen fields.”

People considering applying for an Achievements Award must be aged 14 or over and live within the District’s boundaries.

Application forms are available to download from the Council’s website by logging on to www.westoxon.gov.uk/grants or can be requested over the phone on 01993 861080