COUNCILLORS will be asked to dig deep to help cover the costs of one of the region's budding sports stars.

At just 16, Richmond's Nicola Jackson took to the world stage when she swam the first leg of the women's 4 x 200 metre freestyle at the Olympic Games, in Sydney, last October.

But to maintain her high standards, Nicola still needs help with the costs of travel, training and equipment.

Richmondshire District Council has already broken its grants policy once, donating £1,000 last year - £800 more than the maximum outlined in its own Talented Sports People programme.

However, the authority's leisure committee will be asked tomorrow to sanction another grant of similar size.

"Bearing in mind the standard which Nicola has reached, the district council should be proud to be associated with her achievements and pleased her loyalty to the local club and pool still remains strong," says a report to councillors.