THE Grant family, from Trowbridge, are calling on the county to get behind Paralympic swimming star Stephanie Millward and get her to the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

Millward, 32, starred with five medals at London 2012 and repeated the feat at the IPC World Swimming Championships in Montreal, in August.

Karen Grant and sons Tom, 10, and Rhys, six, are embarking on a fundraising campaign to support the Box pool queen’s next Paralympic push and are urging local businesses and organisations to lend their aid.

“Our family knows Steph because my mum (Helen Baker) used to work with her.

“Her funding has dropped after London 2012 and we just think that Wiltshire needs to support one of its sporting stars,” said Grant.

“If the county wants to have someone representing Team GB, then local businesses need to try and help her out.

“Steph is always going to different events. Last week she went to visit the kids at Bristol Children’s Hospital to give them a bit of inspiration but she had to pay for that herself.

“Tom painted himself in Union Jack colours and helped raise £250 for her at the Spiritual Earth event in North Bradley, in July, and we’re going to be organising a fundraising campaign next year.

“We’re looking to hold a ball, a comedy night and a fete to support Steph.

“We just think it’s important to get behind her and hopefully there are more people in Wiltshire that want to do that.”

Millward supported youngster Tom last weekend by watching him successfully grade for his Martial Arts Leisure black belt in karate.

Anyone interested in sponsorship or fundraising for Great Britain star Millward can contact Grant on 07793 201145.

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