A YOUNG Abergavenny skater's hopes of travelling to the USA for this summer's world championships are in jeopardy unless his family are able to raise much-needed sponsorship for the epic trip.

Matt Downward, 12, has already endured three rounds of gruelling trials to make the Great Britain roller hockey squad for the championships in Detroit, Michigan, and in doing so becomes the first under-12 Welsh player to be selected Team GB.

Now his family are seeking financial support to make his dreams come true and pit his skills against the best in the world.

Matt is captain of the Welsh Superleague team at under-12 level and has previously represented Wales at several age groups since taking up the sports at the age of six. A member of the Cardiff Junior Devils, he is also due to appear for the South West Conference team later this year.

A former member of local side the Gavenny Gators, before they disbanded, he now plays for Caerphilly Roller Club, a member of the British In-line Puck Hockey Association.

l Anyone interested in potentially sponsoring Matt for future competitions can contact his parents, on 01873 857597.