An Olympic athlete surprised a Southampton kayaking team with a special coaching session.

Hattie Taylor visited the Hamble High Performance Centre on Tuesday, October 3, as part of the Aldi Sports Bursary competition.

The centre was one of ten winners chosen by Aldi, Team GB, and ParalympicsGB following a study showing many Brits feel more funding and resources are needed for sports clubs. The bursary provides funding and coaching to help teams, schools, and clubs.

Hamble High's coach, Sally Holland, entered the competition, winning the training session, a £1,500 cash prize for equipment, and Aldi vouchers for sports supplies from its Specialbuys range.

Hattie Taylor, Team GB bronze rowing medallist at Paris 2024, said: "I am honoured to have been able to meet a team in my local area and be able to hear their stories and share my experience with them. 

"I have seen first-hand how support from sponsors of Team GB and ParalympicsGB such as Aldi can provide the necessary funding to fulfil dreams and spark joy back into sporting communities.

"My local sports club was so important to me growing up; those who were part of it inspired my athletic career, and I am grateful to have been a part of this initiative to encourage that for future generations.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the club, and the members of Hamble High Performance Centre were great and soaked up all the tips and tricks I gave them. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this much-deserved funding will have on the group."

Sally Holland of Hamble Performance Centre said: "The Hamble High Performance Centre team are delighted to receive the Aldi Sports Bursary in recognition of their national and international success this year.

"It will give the Hamble High Performance Centre the opportunity to buy some much needed equipment to support the successful trajectory of our athletes!"