Two young divers have benefited from a new support fund administered by Southampton City Council.

Chloe Pook (8) and Yazzy Freemantle (10) have both been awarded grants under the new Children's Sport Support Fund 2005, financed by the Children's Fund and administered by the Sports Development Unit at Southampton City Council.

Freemantle only started diving a year ago, but now has won herself a place in the Southampton Diving Academy.

She was one of just a few children selected to take part in the ASA South East Region Novice trials last month.

Coach Sarah White said: "Yazzy has a great attitude and commit ment."

Pook, who also trains at The Quays, has been diving since she was six, when she went to The Quays for a free taster' session as soon as she was old enough to qualify.

She is now coached by Steve Gladding, an Elite coach seconded to the Academy by British Diving, and is preparing for the National Age Groups Competition in Leeds next month.

Pook's mum, Claire, said: "Whatever sport your child chooses gets expensive if they are doing well. Apart from regular training, we have to find the money to pay for trips away and her equipment, which all adds up.

"Help from the fund has been wonderful."

Any child aged 5-13 living anywhere in the city of Southampton is eligible to apply for funding to pursue their chosen sport provided the club is registered with the fund. For further details, ring Kevin Harris 023 8083 3319.