Shropshire teenager Patrick Lapage has been handed a significant cash boost in his bid to compete in the 2012 London Olympics.

The 17-year-old rower from Shrewsbury will receive up to £1,000 each year in the run up to 2012 after being named as a Lloyds TSB Local Hero.

He is currently aiming for selection for the top boat at the Junior World Rowing Championships, and an elusive gold medal in Austria in July.

Lapage will then turn his attentions to the 2012 Olympics – and he believes the cash award could help him qualify.

“This funding will be so helpful because it means that I can fund all my travelling,” said Lapage, who is Shrewsbury School’s rowing captain.

“I must travel for training so I can keep improving. It’s a huge boost to get this money and it shows I must be doing something right.

“I can spend the money on whatever I need – kit, travel, competition costs and all of the other stuff.

“Reaching London 2012 has always been my dream and this can only help me progress and get to the next level.”

Lapage finished seventh at the World Junior Championships in the men’s eight and enjoyed success at last year’s Henley Royal Regatta.

He is convinced that rubbing shoulders with the likes Olympic champion Jonathan Edwards at a recent launch event in London could prove to be a recipe for success.

“I met Jonathan Edwards, which was a hugely rewarding experience. He was very down to earth and only happy to help with advice,” added Lapage.

“Seeing people who’ve been there and done it can only give you the motivation to do it yourself at an Olympic Games. ”

Lloyds TSB is investing more than £1m over the next five years, playing a major role in supporting Great Britain’s youngest sporting talent.