A WEE County woman is hoping to raise £3,500 so she can continue taking part and competing in various sports.

Lizzie Jackson, who was a baton bearer for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, is looking to purchase a lightweight, sporty wheelchair to help her in her goal.

The 43-year-old is involved in a number of pursuits, including bowls, swimming, athletics, wheelchair curling, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis and football.

She also goes along to a variety of 'come and try' events hosted by Forth Valley Disability Sport and Scottish Disability Sport.

The Sauchie woman – who ended up in the final of the Scottish Wheelchair Curling Championships in 2013, playing in the same team as members of Team GB who played at Sochi winter paralympics, after being asked to fill in for someone at the last minute – also competes in most of her sports and has secured a number of medals.

She said: "I have decided to try raise this money as the wheelchair I am using at the moment is at the end of its lifespan and is going to continuously cost me money with repairs. The company that looks after my wheelchair have recommended that it would be safer to get a new one.

"It is very important to reach my target as I want to continue taking part in sport and also keep my independence when going to my sports, as I can get a sporty lightweight wheelchair in my car by myself and also self propel it myself. 

"If I use my standard wheelchair I have to rely on finding someone to accompany me to my sports to help put my wheelchair in the car, and also push me about in my chair which isn't practical when playing basketball or tennis.

"Sport is very important to me and plays a big part in my life. Taking part in sport helps me with my physical health and mental health; sport has helped me grow in confidence and become a stronger person. 

"It has also helped me make a lot of new friends. If I didn't have my sport I think my health would go downhill and I would probably spend a lot more time in my bed with bad days."

Lizzie is busy fundraising to help her raise the money and plans to attend a carboot sale with a number of items to help her progress.

However, she would be grateful for any donations, big or small, from Clacks residents to help her on her way.

To give, head to Lizzie's GoFundMe page.