YOUNG arm wrestlers are celebrating receiving a cash grant that will allow them to compete on the international stage.

The 10-strong team from Hyndburn will be representing Great Britain at the three-day world championships in Manchester, thanks to the £600 grant given to them by their local area committee representatives on Lancashire County Council.

This will be added to the £1,000 pledged by Hyndburn Council and the £900 being raised by the participating youth groups.

Elaine Barker, who has been coaching the Hyndburn Junior Arm Wrestling Team for the past few months, said: "There will be thousands of spectators at the event - this is serious stuff. The kids can't just go out in their old tracksuits, they need proper uniforms to represent their country. They need to stay in accommodation together before the championship to create a team spirit." The 35-year-old former world champion added: "The arm wrestling has proved to be life changing in terms of the behaviour of those involved. It has given them something to focus on and has created a sense of pride among them."

Youths from the New Era youth group in Accrington, Oswaldtwistle Youth and Community Centre, Huncoat Youth Project and a detachment from Church will be at the event in November.