A WOMAN powerlifter who has been picked to compete for England at the Commonwealth Championships in Canada is hoping the community can give her a helping hand.

The family of Bea Wright from Newent has launched a £2,500 fundraiser to help her compete in the bench press in September, as the sport is unfunded.

When picked last month, ‘shocked’ Bea, 33, said: “I never imagined I’d be chosen to represent England at the Commonwealth Powerlifting Championships in Canada in bench press.

“I’m over the moon to be given this opportunity and it makes all the changes I’ve made over the last few months worth it.”

The former Newent Community School and Hartpury College student, who works in Gloucester as a fitness instructor and sports massage therapist, has always been active in sport, playing football, completing Ironman Wales in 2013 and running marathons.

And in 2017, whilst working out at the gym, current training partner and fellow international call-up Johnny O’Riordan, saw Bea’s potential and encouraged her to try powerlifting and she hasn’t looked back since. But as powerlifting is a non-funded sport, Bea needs to raise funds for flights, accommodation and entry fees and other costs, and has already organised several fundraising events.

She posted: “My awesome sister has set up a GoFundMe page to help me out a little.

“Any donations of any size will help me and be appreciated. Feel free to share the post and spread the word.”

Later, Bea added: “Overcome by your generosity so far, but would still appreciate some more if you can afford it.

“Such an amazing opportunity that I’m honoured to receive and accept.

“I never imagined I’d get the opportunity to represent England.”

Bea’s sister Billie-Ann Wright, who set up the GoFundMe page, said: “She has so much determination and passion about everything and always gives every-thing her best and I’m super proud.

“Unfortunately powerlifting is a non-funded sport and so we’d like to help Bea raise some funds to get her to her first international competition.”