Budding gymnasts rubbed shoulders with rising star athletes at an evening held to celebrate the very best of Broadland's sporting success.

Twenty-six youngsters who had received Sponsorship for Excellence grants from the council were awarded certificates to mark their achievements by former Norwich City legend Bryan Gunn, at a ceremony at its Thorpe Lodge headquarters.

In all, 93 grants were made in the year to competitors who live in the district and have competed in their chosen sport at county level or above.

The council's economic development portfolio holder, Councillor Stuart Clancy said: 'It is genuinely uplifting to be associated with so many young people who are shining in their particular sporting field.

'We are very proud of them, and very pleased to have been able to give them a financial helping hand to chase their dream.'

Maria Alborough, Broadland's sports development officer, added: 'All told, there were 16 different sports represented, which shows what a wide range of talent with have in the district.'

Among those recognised for their achievements were Alfie Hewett, 12 from Cantley, who represented Great Britain in the Wheelchair Tennis World Team Cup as a member of the junior squad, and Lewis Humphries, 15 from Blofield, who is number one in the UK under-18 indoor archery rankings after winning the National Championships.

Alex Madden, 12, from Drayton, was selected for the British children's alpine skiing team, while Edward Benton, 14 of Hevingham, made the English Academy as a ten-pin bowler.

Emily Crowe, 12 from Sprowston, won the British Schools' Gymnastics Championships and has been chosen for the British squad.