A potential Olympian who needs thousands of pounds a year to fund his sporting dreams has seen his funds boosted in an unusual way.

Keen water polo player Ziggy Tate has been picked for Team GB but still has to pay his own way because the squad is entirely selffunded.

But the 18-year-old, from St Mary's Close, Littlehampton, now has his own charity shop to help him raise money to pay his way.

It was set up by his family in South Street, Tarring, Worthing, and sells donated items.

Staffed by volunteers, the shop is open weekdays and some Saturdays.

Ziggy said: "I'm so grateful to everyone for their help.

"They've worked really hard to get the shop up and running and it will help me pay for my very expensive training."

His mother Carol said paying for her son's passion was now even more difficult because funding for the squad's training had been pulled a month ago.

She said: "Last year we spent about £10,000 on his travel and training and now we even have to pay to hire the pool for them to train in.

"The whole squad is suffering and needs to try and find a sponsor but we are really proud of Ziggy and all the lads.

"They have worked so hard to get to where they are and come so far that all the parents are working hard to raise cash to keep them going."

Ziggy trains for 18 hours a week with Team GB at Grantham College in Lincolnshire where he is also studying an engineering and manufacturing course.

Along with fellow Team GB squad members Joel Abbott from Worthing and Scott Martin from Chichester, Ziggy hopes to compete in either the 2012 or 2016 Olympic Games.

Ziggy's next big game is for London team Invicta in a league final on April 25 and he has been picked for the European Championships in 2011.

His dad Allan said: "I am very proud of Ziggy. He has worked very hard to get where he is.

"It would be great if a business or someone would come forward to sponsor the squad, they really need it."

Anyone who wants to donate items to the shop or sponsor Ziggy should call Glad on 01903 775837 or Brenda 01903 716721.