Rio boost for McCarthy

The 16-year-old will receive a cash injection of £1,000 towards training and competing and is one of only 264 youngsters selected from across England and Wales.

The Stratford Grammar School for Girls pupil attended the launch of the scheme at Wembley Stadium, where she rubbed shoulders with Olympic diving silver medallist Leon Taylor.

And McCarthy - a Royal Leamington Spa Archery Society member - admits her recent recognition will be just the confidence boost she needs ahead of a hectic 2012 season.

“It’s so nice to get this recognition not just for myself but for my sport,” said McCarthy, who was also treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the Olympic Park in east London.

“It’s helped my friends understand that what I’m doing is something I take very seriously because they don’t always realise how much hard work I have to put in.

“It’s such a fantastic feeling to be involved with the scheme and to know that people want to help you achieve your goals.

“I’ve got the Junior National Outdoor Championships coming up in July at the Lilleshall National Sports Centre in Newport, and the money will be such a help with travelling and accommodation costs.”