A TEENAGER who has been making a splash in the world of water polo has been awarded a grant in recognition of her achievements.

Charlotte Hanson, 16, from Aysgarth, in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire, only took up the sport two years ago, but is already a member of the Great Britain junior ladies team and has recently competed in the Czech Republic, France and Scotland.

The £200 grant from Richmondshire District Council is the maximum the authority usually presents to promising sports stars of the future.

Leisure manager Geoff Thompson said: "We wanted to offer some financial assistance to help pay for the ever-increasing costs of competing at this level.''

Charlotte is a pupil at Richmond's St Francis Xavier School but, in September, she will take up a place at the National Water Polo Academy in Grantham, Lincolnshire, where she will be able to combine her training and further academic studies.

She said: "I am delighted to receive this grant. I regularly train at Eston, Bedale, Harrogate and Catterick, and the money can be used to offset some of the costs involved with travelling."

Two other local youngsters have also received Talented Young Sports Person Grants from the council. Golfer Rachel Thorpe, 12, from Richmond, has been presented with a cheque for £50 while cross-country runner and athlete, Nicholas Zissler, 14, of Melsonby, has been awarded £100.