TALENTED sportsmen and women are being given a boost in the shape of Elite Sports Scholarships worth thousands of pounds.

The programme is being awarded to individuals who possess outstanding sports ability - to strengthen the success already achieved by those training at Middlesbrough College's Sports Academies.

So far, six students have been awarded Elite Sports Scholarships, meaning they receive a free iPad or laptop, free sports academy training kit, free gym membership, free physiotherapy and massage, assistance with costs for representing the Sports Academies and free or subsidised transport to and from the college.

Applications are now open for a further 15 Elite Sports Scholarships, which will be given to students taking up places on Middlesbrough College courses in September 2015.

Emma Kelly, elite sports scholar and captain of the ladies’ football team, said: “The college offers exceptional sporting facilities – you can’t find anything like it nearby.

“Being part of the scholarship has opened up so many doors for me and my career. I love every minute of it. It’s a great programme to be a part of and I would highly recommend anyone who has a passion for sport to apply.”

The Sports Academies are based at Middlesbrough College, Dock Street, Middlesbrough, and the college also uses external venues such as Middlesbrough Rugby Club and Eston Sports Academy.

Find out more by visiting www.mbro.ac.uk or call 01642-333749.