A NEWENT speed skater is one step closer to fulfilling her dream of representing Great Britain at Olympic level – thanks to funding from MyLotto24.

Charlotte Hayward, 15, has received £1,000 as recognition of her talent in the sport which involves racing around an ice track in the quickest time.

The award is organised by SportsAid but the money itself is provided by a company called MyLotto24, who are a lottery betting company that help sports clubs and businesses, and provide official funding to the next generation of potential athletes.

Charlotte had to meet certain standards and achieve aims throughout the year set by her national governing body before she was selected for sponsorship.

Charlotte said: "My SportsAid award will hugely assist me in funding competition fees, sports clothing and essential equipment. Additionally, it will contribute towards the costs involved in travelling to international competitions giving me the opportunity to gain valuable experiences in more challenging and competitive races."