Lloyds TSB Local Heroes initiative a huge boost for hammer thrower Sarah Holt

SARAH HOLT is one of 344 British Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls currently backed by the Lloyds TSB Local Heroes initiative.

And she’s among the 80% of them who believe London 2012 will have a positive impact on future sport participation in this country.

Research carried out by Lloyds TSB in association with SportsAid also shows that 68% of the Local Heroes say the prospect of next year’s Games has had a noticeable impact on people living in their area.

Meanwhile 73% of them say competition has intensified as the event draws closer.

Holt said: “The 2012 Games have been a huge motivation for me ever since London was announced as the host city (in 2005).

“To have the Games in our country is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I think it’s having an effect on people across Britain.

“For me to be recognised by Lloyds TSB is fantastic and it has given me a real boost in pursuing my dream of competing for Team GB in London next year.”

As well as receiving a £1,000 annual award, Local Heroes benefit from practical advice given by former Olympic and Paralympic medalists.

By the start of London 2012 a year today, more than 1,000 will have been through the Local Heroes programme.