The Portsmouth-based England artistic swimming squad has been awarded a cash boost from Persimmon South Coast.

The squad was selected to receive £1,000 to help with training and competition costs through the Building Futures funding initiative.

Mainly funded by parents, the national squad has struggled to compete over the past year due to Covid-19. Fundraiser Alison Gunn said: “After being out the pool for over a year now, we need more than ever to support these young athletes back into training and back to competing again. We are planning towards the 2024 Olympics and, with the funding from Persimmon, we are now able to buy much-needed equipment to support our training.

“If lucky enough to get further funding, this would enable us to support athletes who struggle financially as well as being able to hire out pools and trained coaches. We are keen to help the help the wider community and attract a far bigger audience and participants.”

Persimmon’s Building futures scheme will deliver more than £1m to good causes across England, Scotland, and Wales. The initiative aims to support community groups working with under-18s across three categories – education and arts, health, and sport.

Graeme Cole, sales director for Persimmon South Coast, said: “We’re delighted to be able to help out our young GB artistic swimming squad. Building Futures is all about supporting younger people in our area.”