YOUNG budding sports stars were given a massive boost from a local charity last night to help them reach their ambitious goals.

The 948 Foundation, which was established by the Old Albanians Sports Club, gives grants to youths in the borough hoping to make a name in sport, and awarded £1,000 each to five youngsters.

Saracens rugby player Kevin Sorrell was invited as the night's special guest at the ceremony held at the Old Albanians club in Harpenden Road.

Kevin, who joined the team in 1995, gave a speech to the audience about the importance of sport, as well as awarding the sporting hopefuls their cheques.

He said: “I have been very fortunate to have a career in sport and trust me it's the best thing you can do.

“You love getting up in the morning and getting to work, whatever the weather.”

He added: “It's fantastic that people in St Albans have the 948 Foundation to support them in achieving their goals.

“It's so important to give young people the support in this way.”

The grants were awarded to Sarah Heath, 22, a rower, Jessica Barfoot, 14, a gymnast, Daniel Bigsby, 16, a sailor, Aaron Gould, 16, who plays karate and Jack Turley, 13, who plays tennis.

The 948 Foundation was launched in 2003, with an initial grant of £500,000 from the Old Albanians Sports Club. In six years, it has already handed out 140 grants.

Geriant John, chairman of the foundation said: “There are a lot of young sports people that we have helped.

“Hearing about their aspirations really shows us that we are doing the right thing in helping these young people.

“We are happy to help and we feel what we do is very important.”

Anyone interested in finding out if the 948 Foundation can help them towards their sporting goal can visit www.the948sportsfoundation.org