Starr Trust announces New Champions

Eight local youngsters have been helped to achieve their goals with a Champions Award from the Starr Trust. This Hove based charity supports young people living in the BN postcode region aged 10–18 to fulfil their potential in sports, arts and education, by giving a helping hand at a time when they really need it.

Hannah Clements, 17, from Lancing, is on course to be a champion kayaker. Hannah’s Award is paying for a new boat and training costs. Hannah says: “I am really honoured to have been chosen as a Starr Champion and will do my very best to make them proud”.

Hannah’s mum, Claire, says: “We can’t believe that the Starr Trust have chosen Hannah. She will get so much from the award, not only the equipment and training but meeting such inspiring, positive people from the Trust. I know that this award will touch many young people, not just Hannah, in the long term, and I can’t thank the benefactors enough.”

Jessie Willis-Taylor, 14, from Brighton, suffers with hearing loss but never lets this hold her back when it comes to performing and the arts. Jessie’s Award will cover some of the costs of sending her to a small, local drama school for the year.

Joe Fagan, 13, from Brighton, is passionate about street dance and his Award is going towards lessons with the brilliant JP Omari at Marina Studios.

Buddy,12, from Portslade is a phenomenal wakeboarder, even though he hasn’t been at it for very long. His Award will help him to buy new equipment and pay for his essential club membership.

Curtis, 15, from Brighton, is undergoing rehabilitation following a severe acquired brain injury. Curtis has always been a huge music fan and his Award is paying for music therapy.

Aimee (13), Alice (13) and Shana (17) are all dedicated performers and will, with the Starr Trust’s help, be attending a performing arts summer camp.

For more information about how to apply for a Champions Award, please visit www.starrtrust.com