AN ASPIRING basketball player has been awarded £1,500 sponsorship to develop his talent.

Jeffrey “Jez” Bryan, 20, has been given the money by Wilkinson store in the Victoria Shopping Centre, Southend.

He will use the funding to travel to London and play at a higher, more competitive standard and register for a national league team for training and match fees.

Jez has been playing basketball since he was 11 and has played for Southend Scorpions before recently moving to Southend Saints.

The donation was made as part of Wilko’s Local Star initiative, which sponsors individuals from across the country who either have a special talent, are an inspiration to others or help in their local community.

James Biffen, store manager, said: “It’s always really inspiring to hear about the amazing talent we have in Southend and the Local Stars fund is our way of helping them on their journey, whether it’s volunteer work, sporting activities or nurturing their skills.

“Jez is a fantastic representative for our town and we hope the sponsorship money goes a long way in helping him achieve his basketball dream.”

Jez, who lives in Shoebury, added: “I’m incredibly grateful for the sponsorship from my local Wilkinson store and every pennywill make a difference when it comes to stepping up my training.

It’s comforting to know I’ve got the backing of a local business as well. I only hope I can make Southend proud on the court.”