Former shot put champion and dealer principal at Crystal of Lincoln Nissan, Graeme Stark, has presented a cheque for £4,000 to former strong man and international athlete Geoff Capes.

The Crystal Motor Group is donating the money to the Lincolnshire Throws Academy, which has been set up by the Lincolnshire Sports Partnership in conjunction with Geoff Capes to find the county's next Olympic hopeful.

Over the summer community-based taster events offering budding athletes of all ages the opportunity to have a go at shot, discus, javelin and hammer were held at athletics clubs across the county, including Sleaford Striders.

The most promising athletes from these events were selected and will now go on to the County Throws Academy in Boston headed up by Geoff, with support from several other international athletes.

A past Scottish indoor shot put champion, Graeme said: "The overall aim of the Lincolnshire Throws Academy is to find someone who can putt the shot 20m 12cm by the 2012 Olympics.

"The Crystal Motor Group is delighted to be supporting the county's first ever throws challenge as shot, discus, javelin and hammer often get overlooked in favour of the more high-profile disciplines.

"And, who knows, we could find the next British Olympic star right here in Lincolnshire!"

Former British and Commonwealth shot put record holder Geoff added: "The Lincolnshire Sports Partnership has already identified several people who they think could be potential Olympians and I'm looking forward to seeing what they are capable of.

"From the academy events we are hoping to select a nucleus of people who we can train to throw 20m 12cm, which will guarantee them a place in the 2012 Olympics."

There are seven Lincolnshire Throws Academy events being held in Boston at the Princess Royal Sports Arena starting on October 5, from 10am until 4pm.

l To find out more about the Lincolnshire Throws Academy or how you can take part, contact Dave Carter at the Lincolnshire Sports Partnership on 01522 585580 or alternatively visit www.lincolnshiresportspartnership.co.uk