A RECORD £52,000 was raised by businesses to support the next generation of Olympians in Wiltshire.

The funds were raised at the Wiltshire Business and Sports Annual Gala Dinner.

Now in its sixth year, the event had more than 50 businesses donating prises to the raffle and 15 sponsoring the night.

Wiltshire firms MiPermit, Landmarc and CGI were the main sponsors, with all funds going to the Funding Future Olympians and Paralympians Foundation, which gives £1,000 grants to local elite athletes.

Baroness Jane Scott, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “I’m delighted that a number of local businesses have turned out yet again, to support our local athletes.

"Six years ago we were inspired by the fantastic performances of our local athletes at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games, which led to us creating the Funding Future Olympians and Paralympians Foundation.

“It’s brilliant that we’ve been back every year since to support the connection between local businesses and athletes.”

More than £250,000 has been raised by the dinner since 2013.