Otley girl gets Paralympics boost (From Wharfedale Observer)

Danielle Bailey in sporting initiative

8:25am Thursday 5th April 2012 in Local news

Swimmer Danielle Bailey has been hand-picked as a future British Paralympian after being chosen to be part of the Lloyds TSB Local Heroes initiative.

The 13-year-old, from Otley, will receive £1,000 towards training and competing and is one of 264 youngsters selected from across England and Wales.

Danielle, who attends Prince Henry’s Grammar School, attended the launch of the scheme at Wembley Stadium, where she rubbed shoulders with Olympic diving silver medallist Leon Taylor. Danielle, a Harrogate District Swimming Club member, said: “It felt really good to be picked for the scheme, amazing really. It has really boosted my confidence.

“With the money I can afford new equipment to help me with my swimming.

“I want to try and make the GB team for the World Junior Championships and I want to get as many personal bests as I can this year and just keep improving.”

In partnership with SportsAid, the Lloyds TSB initiative is designed to ensure more talent reaches the top of their sport. In total, 346 talented athletes are part of the programme, with 82 Bank of Scotland Local Heroes also receiving funding.

Diver Leon, who helped mentor London 2012 gold medal hopeful Tom Daley, said: “It’s fantastic for these young athletes to get the funding and support because they have got a massive amount of talent.”

Lloyds TSB Local Heroes, in partnership with SportsAid, provides support and funding to 346 of Britain’s most talented developing athletes on their journey to London 2012 and beyond.

Since 2008, the programme has supported 1,000 athletes.

Follow future stars at facebook.com/lloydstsblocalheroes