Cash splash for canoe kid

The 16-year-old Linlithgow Academy student will receive £1000 towards training and competing and is one of 82 youngsters selected from across Scotland.

The Linlithgow Kayak Racing Club member attended the launch of the scheme at Glasgow Scotstoun Leisure Centre.

And Smith, who competes in the K1, K2 and K4 classes of sprint canoeing, admitted her involvement in the scheme was a major boost as she bids to earn international selection. She said: “It was quite a shock to be selected but it was nice to be acknowledged and obviously the money is going to be a real help.’’

Bank of Scotland Local Heroes, in partnership with SportsAid provides support and funding to emerging Scottish athletes.