ONE of Wales’ top tennis talents is being let down by the Welsh Assembly Government it emerged this week.
Nic Jones, from Aberhafesp, is ranked No1 at under 16 and under 18 in North Wales, but his achievements have continued to be ignored with no funding forthcoming from Cardiff.
The 16-year-old is a star of Wrexham’s high performance tennis centre, but while his Cheshire-based classmates receive £2,500 a year toward their development, Jones has been ignored by the Assembly.
Mother Sue Jones said: “It seems so unfair. Nic has not received any financial help despite English-based high performance students getting a substantial grant toward their studies and development.
“The Lawn Tennis Association are supportive but the Assembly do not help potential sporting talent in their own country.
“Nic is very dedicated and makes the trip to Wrexham via train at 5.30am every day and often does not arrive home until after 6pm. He is also committed to achieving academically alongside his tennis.”
Jones’ cause has been heeded by Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrat AM Mick Bates, who has already visited the Wrexham training centre.
Mr Bates said: “It is crucial that students from Wales are not disadvantaged by the lack of funding to help with this training.
“I have urged the Minister for Heritage to take action to support the delivery of the Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence across a range of sports in Wales, such as tennis, so students from either side of the border can achieve their full sporting potential.”