A diver who as a youngster was given funding by Hackney Council won a silver medal at this year’s Commonwealth Games.

Noah Williams is one of 425 people who have been supported by the Youth Sports Fund since 2007. The money is given to youngsters to support their progression in sport and can go towards equipment, travel, accommodation, fees or coaching.

It is open to anyone aged nine to 23 with sporting potential who lives or goes to a school in Hackney. Community clubs can also apply.

Mossbourne student Nicole Caicado, 13, received funding for the first time this year and has already been scouted by the Millwall Community Trust to represent Millwall Lionesses at under 14s.

She said: “I was pleased to win a sports funding award because I felt I was recognised for my abilities and my strong passion for football at my young age.

“I really enjoy playing football and being around good positive people, this helps me with my confidence as an individual on and off the pitch.”