The hunt is on for the medal winning stars of the future

The Athlete Performance Programme - free to selected athletes and the first of its kind in Scotland - aims to support the next generation of sporting athletes with everything from nutrician advice to strength training.

The project is being rolled out by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust and the council, in partnership with sportscotland, and is a key part of the 2014 Commonwealth Games legacy locally.

The elite programme started in January with 117 athletes nominated by clubs and schools. A total of 22 have been selected to take part and are now being given the unique sporting opportunity.

The first year will see two sites developed within East Dunbartonshire - including the Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre. In the second year the programme will be rolled out to a third venue in Bishopbriggs.

Scott Hill, chairman of EDLC Trust, said: “The new programme gives athletes, coaches and clubs the opportunity of invaluable development in their sports - providing a stepping stone to national programmes.

“It’s a huge project which will help athletes, volunteers and coaches for years to come - ensuring a fitting legacy for the Glasgow 2014 Games.”