Alessia Thomas-Jackson, 15, of Calford Drive, is a European champion skier but expensive trips to Austria could mean she never realises her potential.

She has already had to pull out of the youth Olympics later this year but much-needed funds would help her to maintain her place in the England squad.

Mum Niki, who has already invested thousands of pounds, is desperate to find a financial backer for her daughter.

She said: “As with everybody, we are feeling the pinch and now this is costing too much. Unfortunately we will lose all the money we have paid out as well as having to give the kit back.

“She can do ten weeks’ training and racing with her coach in Austria for £4,000.”

Alessia’s finest achievement was being victorious in the under-17 European championships, finishing third female overall.

After pulling out of the youth Olympics, her schedule now means she will be training in France and Austria before competing in competitions in Austria.

She is due to return to Britain for the Welsh Alpine Championships at the end of January before training with the England squad and competing in the English Alpine race in Italy.

More races and training with her coach in Austria are set to follow before she returns to the England squad for the British Championships at Easter.

Alessia reaches speeds of up to 80km/h in the dangerous downhill sport, but isn’t fazed by crashing.

“It’s kind of scary but I close my eyes so don’t see anything,” she said.

n Anyone who can help Alessia should email nikitj@ btinternet.com