A brand-new fund to support talented athletes from across Hyndburn has been officially launched at the Active Hyndburn Awards 2026.
The Talent Fund, delivered by Hyndburn Leisure with support from Hyndburn Borough Council, was launched during the awards evening by Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, Cllr Munsif Dad.
The new Fund will provide grants of up to £500 to help talented local athletes meet some of the additional costs associated with progressing in their sport.
It is aimed at athletes who are already competing at a high level, or who have the potential to progress to national standard, and will provide practical financial support towards eligible costs such as competition travel, accommodation, entry fees, training fees, specialist equipment and representative kit.
Launching the Fund, Cllr Munsif Dad, Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said:
“Hyndburn has an incredible amount of sporting talent and we want our young people and athletes to have every opportunity to fulfil their potential.
“As athletes progress through their sport, the costs involved can increase significantly. Travel, competitions, specialist equipment and training can all become a real financial pressure for individuals and families.
“The Talent Fund is about providing some practical support at an important point in an athlete’s development. We want talented people from our borough to be able to aim high, represent Hyndburn with pride and see just how far their ability and determination can take them.
“I’m delighted to officially launch the Fund at the Active Hyndburn Awards, an evening which celebrates everything that is great about sport, physical activity and the people who make a difference across our borough.”
The Fund will particularly consider applications where financial pressures could otherwise prevent or restrict an athlete’s progression.
Successful applicants will also be encouraged to give something back to their local community, helping to inspire others across Hyndburn to become active, take part in sport and aim high.
This could include supporting community and sporting events, taking part in publicity and social media activity, visiting local groups, volunteering at appropriate activities or sharing their sporting journey and achievements.
Anne Ellwood, Trustee at Hyndburn Leisure and a London 2012 Olympic Torchbearer, said:
“Sport has an amazing ability to inspire people, bring communities together and create opportunities that can last a lifetime.
“We know there are talented athletes across Hyndburn who are working incredibly hard to progress, often alongside their families making considerable commitments to training, travel and competition.
“Sometimes a relatively small amount of financial support can make a very big difference. This Fund is about helping athletes take that next step while also creating a group of positive sporting role models who can inspire the next generation here in Hyndburn.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing the applications and following the journeys of the athletes we are able to support.”
The first round of the Hyndburn Talent Fund is now open, with applications accepted until 30th November 2026.
Full eligibility criteria, application guidelines and the application form are available on the Hyndburn Leisure website: Talent Fund – Hyndburn Leisure
Applicants are encouraged to read the guidance carefully and provide clear information about their current sporting level, achievements, future ambitions, financial need and what they are requesting support towards.
Anyone who would like advice or support before applying can contact Hyndburn Leisure on 01254 269600 or email [email protected].
Aim high. Represent Hyndburn. Reach your potential.
