MAKE-up artist Jill Brindle will leave her lotions and potions behind when she goes Down Under to represent Britain in the world mountain biking championships.

Jill, 30, from Tockholes, will be concentrating more on tyres and pedals than blushers and mascara when she joins the 12-strong team of competitors in September this year.

But although her prowess on two-wheels has secured her a place in the competition Jill needs more than just pedal power to get her there.

"I am desperate for sponsorship," she said. "It is going to cost me over £2,000 to get there and I really need some help to do it.

"I am hoping that local businesses will come to my rescue."

Jill's call for help comes as top athletes from the British Olympic squad call for more government support for sports people.

She is one of six women riders selected to take part but only one has been sponsored by the British Cycling Federation.

Jill said: "It is really difficult to find sponsorship so I will be really grateful for any help whatsoever."

She has had a quick rise to the top of the sport after taking up mountain biking seven years ago.

"I only took it up to get fit," she said, "but it just sort of escalated."

Jill began taking part in local competitions and was soon competing on a national level.

In Australia she will take part in the downhill races and is hoping to bring home a medal. MAKE-up artist Jill Brindle will leave her lotions and potions behind when she goes Down Under to represent Britain in the world mountain biking championships.

Jill, 30, from Tockholes, will be concentrating more on tyres and pedals than blushers and mascara when she joins the 12-strong team of competitors in September this year.

But although her prowess on two-wheels has secured her a place in the competition, Jill needs more than just pedal power to get her there.

"I am desperate for sponsorship," she said. "It is going to cost me over £2,000 to get there and I really need some help to do it.

"I am hoping that local businesses will come to my rescue."

Jill's call for help comes as top athletes from the British Olympic squad call for more government support for sports people.

She is one of six women riders selected to take part, but only one has been sponsored by the British Cycling Federation.

Jill said: "It is really difficult to find sponsorship so I will be really grateful for any help whatsoever."

She has had a quick rise to the top of the sport after taking up mountain biking seven years ago.

"I only took it up to get fit," she added, "but it just sort of escalated."

Jill began taking part in local competitions and was soon competing on a national level.

In Australia she will take part in the downhill races and is hoping to bring home a medal.

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