A BEXLEY paralympian hopeful has been given a cash boost towards achieving her dream of success at the 2016 Games.
Balfour Beatty, which sponsors the London Youth Games, has distributed 16 grants of £750 to young Londoners capable of representing Team GB at the next Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Rebecca Cooper, 18, has been ranked as number six nationally for gymnastics.
The former pupil of Bexleyheath Academy has hemiplegia - a form of cerebral palsy.
She received the bursary from Balfour Beatty’s 16 for 16 scheme at a special reception held at Westminster Abbey’s College Gardens.
Former London Youth Games competitors Dalton Grant, Linford Christie and Steve Backley attended the event.
Rebecca said: "It's really great, it will help with equipment and competitions.
"It has been so amazing to meet the likes of Linford Christie and the other athletes.
"I started doing general gymnastics when I was younger and then moved on to rhythmic gymnastics. It is good because I have fun and enjoy doing it."
To get involved in the London Youth Games for Bexley, contact Julie Fuller on 0208 294 6982 or email Julie_Fuller@bexley.gov.uk
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