A school is launching a fundraiser with professional Olympic athletes to provide much needed sports equipment.

Hardy Mill Primary School in Harwood, Bolton, has teamed up with Sports for Champions for the fundraiser which will help athletes to fund training, and the school’s own sports resources.

The school will be receiving a visit from England International Powerchair Footballer, Brad Bates, who will be speaking to the children about the challenges he faced on his road to success and the resilience and dedication to reach his goals.

Deputy Head Miss Lisa Perry said: “The fundraiser came about as part of our upcoming 'I am a Champion' theme week in school, where we will be celebrating the children's talents and individual qualities that make them champions.

The Bolton News: Brad Bates

“The children are very excited that Brad is coming to our school and have been sponsored by family and friends to take part in a fitness circuit.

"The money raised will be split between Sports for Champions, who help athletes with the funds needed for training, medical costs, equipment and competition fees and our school, where the money will be used to benefit the education of all the children.

“We would like to thank our families for their generous contributions to the fundraiser and look forward to a successful day of circuit training.”

Brad will lead a fitness day at the school as part of the programme aiming to inspire the future generation of talent.

Sports For Champions events are held in support of schools, which keep 60 percent of the funds raised to spend on resources that will enrich young people’s education and experience.

Professional athletes in need of support are the only other beneficiaries from the remaining 40 percent.

A spokesman for Sports for Champions said: “Hardy Mill Primary School is promoting health and wellbeing throughout the school and with the help of a visit from Brad Bates, this will be enhanced across all year groups and staff, they are also focussing on encouraging diversity and raising the aspirations of the pupils through sport.

“Hardy Mill Primary School will benefit from the money raised as they will be able to provide new equipment, fund opportunities for the children, and more.”

To donate, visit the Crowdfunder (https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/hardymill)