Guiseley-born Paralympic athlete Jane Sowerby, who is competing in the Great Britain alpine skiing team at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver, is one of several backed by accountants Deloitte.

Two-thirds of Britain’s Paralympic team have benefited from Deloitte funding through its talented athlete scholarship scheme, part of its Disability Sport Programme.

Leeds-based Heather Hancock, lead partner for London 2012 and Deloitte Disability Sport, said: “Through TASS, we help future stars on their journey to the podium.”

Deloitte’s financing of TASS awards allows athletes to achieve their potential and keep up their education at college or university.

Most of this year’s crop of athletes will receive an award of £3,500. Ten, identified as ‘potential medal winners’ at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, will receive £10,000.

Deloitte has supported Paralympic gold medallists in Beijing including the BBC’s young sports personality of the year for 2008, Eleanor Simmonds.