THERE will be a chance for talented young sportsmen and women to have free training at the swimming pool and leisure centre in Tenbury.

Talented young sportsmen and women in the Malvern District Council area, that includes Tenbury, have an opportunity to gain free access to Freedom Leisure Centres as part of the Freedom Leisure Talented Athlete Support Scheme.

The not-for-profit leisure trust launched the scheme in Sussex in 2012 to give a helping hand to talented young athletes and it is now being extended to their centres in the Malvern area.

Applications are open for boys and girls aged 14 to 25 and there are 30 spaces available.

Successful applicants will receive 12 months Connected Membership that gives them free access to all Freedom Leisure centres in Malvern district.

“As a community leisure provider we feel it is important to cater for all sectors of the community including emerging talent,” said Richard Bagwell, group sports development manager for Freedom Leisure.

“Since starting the scheme in Sussex we have supported more than 100 aspiring athletes across a range of disciplines from mainstream sports like badminton and basketball to minority sports like modern pentathlon and lifesaving.

“By providing free access to training facilities, we hope to make a real difference and help young sporting stars reach their full potential.”

Applications for the Freedom Leisure Talented Athlete Support Scheme close on June 21. Athletes must be aged between 14 and 25 years although applications from athletes outside this age range may be accepted in exceptional circumstances.

Applicants must hold a UK top 10 ranking in a Sport England recognised sport. They must live in a district or borough with a Freedom Leisure centre or attend a club at one of their Malvern district sites to qualify.

To apply visit www.freedom-leisure.co.uk and complete the online application form.