Leor the British Lion

Young Edge Hill footballer Leor Sidle is full of 'Middle-Eastern promise? following his selection for the Great Britain Jewish team.

Leor, a sports science student, will represent Team GB at the 17th Maccabiah Games staged in Israel this July ? the third largest event in the sporting calendar behind the Olympics and the football World Cup.

The 18-year-old, who plays centre forward, was named in the Great Britain squad following a number of trials held at Bisham Abbey ? the home of the England national team.

"It?s a great feeling to get picked for your country and I can?t wait to be involved in such a massive event," said Leor, who hails from Prestwich, Bury. "I was actually eligible for the under 18s team so to make it into the senior side is fantastic.

"I?m determined to go out there, soak up the atmosphere, play as much football as I can and hopefully return home with a medal around my neck."

Before Leor can board his flight to Israel however, over £2000 is required by the British team to cover expenses ? a sum that the youngster is determined to find in order to fulfil his dream.

"I would be pretty disappointed to miss out purely for financial reasons when I have already been selected for the squad for my football ability," added Leor. "I?ve already made inroads into the figure but I am hoping to still find that extra backing from somewhere."

If anyone is interested in sponsoring Leor?s trip to Israel, please call him on 07837 564064.