Rossendale Leisure Trust is proud to announce that Isobel, a gifted young swimmer from Ramsbottom ASC, has been selected as part of the Rossendale Rising Stars Scheme – an exciting initiative created to support the borough’s most talented and ambitious young athletes.

Isobel, who specialises in Butterfly and Backstroke, has enjoyed her most successful competitive year to date. Over the last two seasons, she has qualified and raced in six events at the Lancashire County Championships, reaching multiple finals, and competed in three events at the North West Regional Championships, securing a finals place in one of them. Now competing at regional level, she is pushing towards the highest tiers of the sport with her sights firmly set on achieving National qualification in the 200m Backstroke.

The Rossendale Rising Stars Scheme provides free fitness memberships to athletes aged 11–25 who live, study, or train in Rossendale and who compete at regional level or above. The scheme grants access to Rossendale Leisure Trust’s gyms, swimming pools, and fitness classes, all designed to boost athletic performance while supporting physical and mental wellbeing.

Speaking about joining the programme, Isobel said:

“I’m right on the edge of achieving national times, and this year has shown me how close I am to reaching that goal. Having access to gym facilities through the Rising Stars Scheme will make a massive difference. I currently don’t have a gym membership because of the cost, so being able to do proper strength and conditioning work alongside my seven pool sessions a week will really help me take the next step.”

The initiative reflects Rossendale Leisure Trust’s commitment to nurturing talent, promoting inclusion, and providing opportunities for young athletes to reach their full potential. By removing financial barriers and offering dedicated support, the scheme empowers athletes like Isobel to chase their sporting ambitions.

As Isobel continues her journey toward national competition, Rossendale Leisure Trust is proud to champion her progress and celebrate everything she has already achieved.

For more information about the Rossendale Rising Stars Scheme or to apply, visit https://rltrust.co.uk/young-person-talented-athlete-scheme/