Olympic hero Sally Gunnell OBE has urged the next generation of sporting stars to apply for a share of a £1m pot of gold.

The GLL Sport Foundation (GSF) has opened its coffers to young sports stars in Epsom and Ewell, and you have until February 20 to apply for awards of up to £1,250.

Last year, the foundation supported 1,500 athletes from across the country, including 32 from the borough.

They included Banstead’s skud class sailor Alexandra Rickham, who holds the Paralympic bronze medal and is a five-time world champion.

She said: “The GLL Sport Foundation award supports my training and competition requirements, being an ambassador also allows me to inspire others to compete and achieve success.”

Another supported athlete is GB 400m hurdler Shona Richards, and the 18-year-old returned from the Junior World Championships with two silver medals last year.

Gunnell, a former 400m hurdle Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth champion, said: “From my own experience, starting out as a young athlete and progressing through my sport, I understand how important support from the foundation is to the realisation of sporting ambitions.”

The foundation ambassador added: “Through the programme, we are providing the next generation of athletes with tangible support to make a real difference to their sporting journey.”

Foundation chairman Peter Bundey said: “It is crucial we support the talent and enthusiasm of our young sporting stars.

“We can help young athletes bridge the difficult leap from regional to national and international level as they start to become ready for senior competition.”

To apply and find out further details of the scheme go to gllsport foundation.org.