A young Thetford swimmer has been given a grant which will help achieve her dream of competing at a national level.

Alice Fasey trains regularly at the Thetford Dolphins Swimming Club and competes at county and regional level.

The 12-year-old has already broken many of the club's records for her age, including the 100m medley record - which had stood undefeated since 1987.

Her ambition is to compete at the highest levels and recently attended two Eastern Region Talent camps which prepare swimmers for possible entry into England and world class programmes.

A £350 Gifted and Talented grant from Breckland Council will help towards the cost of competition swimsuits, equipment, entry fees and accommodation.

Clare Fasey, Alice's mother, said: 'Alice has shown a passion for swimming since she was little and her hard work is really paying off now.

'I am extremely proud of her achievements. Stepping up a gear in a bid to compete at national level will bring additional bills, so this grant will be a real help.'

The council offers a range of grant schemes that support both individuals and community projects.

Councillors Roy Brame and John Newton, members for the Thetford Castle ward, congratulated Alice on her successes.

They said: 'We are pleased that Breckland is able to help support Alice in achieving her ambitions. Success hinges as much on hard work and determination as it does on natural talent - Alice has demonstrated all these attributes and this award is well deserved.'

For more information about grants contact the Norfolk Community Foundation on 01603 623958 or email grants@norfolkfoundation.com