Two talented youngsters have competed in an international contest thanks to a grant from an Island charity.

Oliver and Emily Harrison, who are members of the Sheerness Swimming Club and Lifeguard Corps, were given the £260 boost from the Paul Trigwell Memorial Fund.

The siblings, of St George’s Avenue, Sheerness, were chosen by Medway Amateur Swimming Association to be part of a team which travelled to Lumbres in France to take part in a gala and the money helped pay for their travel there.

Both 16-year-old Oliver and his 14-year-old sister set personal best times during the two-day competition and the points they gained helped the team win the event.

The fund was set up in memory of the head of St George’s Middle School in Minster, who died suddenly in 2006.

It aims to support Island children and since its launch, more than £50,000 of grants have been given out.

Each year the fund is given a huge boost by the Paul Trigwell Island Run (PTIR) which this year will take place on Sunday, May 12.

There will be four events to choose from and participants have until Wednesday to register in advance.

There will also be the opportunity to sign up on the day.

The theme this year is animals and everyone is encouraged to go along in fancy dress.

Paul’s widow Fiona said: “Oliver and Emily are talented youngsters and that’s what the charity is all about.

“It’s not just for under-privileged children, it’s for talented young people to realise their full potential.”

• To sign up for the challenge, and for more information, go to www.ptir.org.uk or search on Facebook.