Scheme will see �1m worth of grants being given to sports projects

A charity funding project which supports sports projects in Brent was kick started in Wembley Stadium today (Friday).

Harlesden boxer James Degale MBE and Queen’s Park footballer Rachel Yankey MBE were at the launch of the Wembley National Stadium Trust (WNST).

The initiative, which also supports projects outside of the borough, is funded through a donation from Wembley National Stadium Ltd equating to one per cent of their annual turnover.

An estimated �1million is expected to be donated each year.

WNST are offering grants to sports groups which can be used towards the costs of coaching, equipment, facilities or general running costs.

Up to �300,000 in total is expected to be available this year.

Lord Toby Harris, WNST chairman, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for local people in Brent to get involved in sport. We are here to help clubs, charities and local organisations to maintain and improve their provision of sports activities.

“We look forward to working with many of them over the coming years.”

Sports groups who wish to apply for a grant can do so by visiting www.wnst.org.uk.

Closing date for applications is December 5 at 5pm.