Sporting performances in Lochaber are set to improve thanks to additional funding being secured by Lochaber Sports Council.

They are to receive up to £4,210 from Lochaber Enterprise which will help towards the costs of a part-time administrator as well as making a valuable contribution to excellence and coaching grants.

Excellence grants are annual awards made to individuals and clubs in the Lochaber area who have achieved international, national or regional success. Coaching awards are provided to help people obtain recognised coaching qualifications.

Recently, a particular priority for the sports council has been to extend its activities and raise its profile in more rural parts of Lochaber.

Mel Davenport, chairperson of the Lochaber Sports Council said: "We are actively seeking to increase membership of the sports council so that we can get as accurate a picture of the local sports scene as possible. This extra funding from Lochaber Enterprise will help us achieve our goals and assist people throughout the whole area to excel in their individual sports."

Charlotte Wright, head of community development at Lochaber Enterprise said: "Sport plays an important role in helping young people develop a wide range of skills which are ultimately of benefit to the whole community.

"As many communities in the last five years have either upgraded or replaced old village halls with modern facilities, we need an active sports and activities sector to ensure that they are fully utilised and sustainable in the longer term.

"Encouraging talented sports people to improve their performances also has a beneficial impact on the area as these people are a great advert for Lochaber when they take part in competitions further afield."

For further information about membership or assistance available through the Lochaber Sports Council contact Joyce Donaldson on 01397 702102.