Bradford’s Harry Mattick is desperately searching for funding to keep his dream alive after being selected to represent Team GB at the 2013 European Figure Skating Championships in Croatia.

Last month the five-time junior champion competed for the first time in the senior men’s category and produced impressive displays in the free skating and short programme to win a silver medal at the National Ice Skating Association (NISA) British Championships.

Mattick was pipped to the gold by Matthew Parr, from Newcastle, who picked up his third British senior title, but the Bradfordian achieved a higher international score at the NRW Trophy in Dortmund.

The European Champion-ships will be the biggest competition of Mattick’s career but the 19-year-old requires further sponsorship to keep competing for titles.

The heavy costs associated the sport means he is constantly shelling out for flights, accommodation and living costs during competitions.

Without further funding, Mattick faces the grim prospect of not being able to continue as there is little state sponsorship available and NISA, the sport’s governing body, does not have the resources to fund skaters.

His widowed mother is giving her entire income and both her and Mattick are living on a shoestring budget to keep him skating.

Mattick, who 14 years ago was temporarily left unable to walk after a car crash that killed his father, believes he needs around 3,750 Euro to get to Zagreb and has created a fundraising account on Sponsume to try and reach the target.

The tournament takes place between January 21-27 and he has so far raised over 500 Euro from his friends.

Mattick and his family are appealing for support from Bradford businesses and sporting charities who may be interested in sponsoring or providing other forms of support for the teenager, who has ambitions to compete in the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Mattick’s brother Jim said: “Sustainable sponsorship is essential because whether Harry manages to get to Zagreb or not, there is no money to keep him skating after that.

“So far we have had few replies and the ones we have received had been negative. There must be a way of finding a sustainable funding model.”

To sponsor Mattick, go to www.sponsume.com/nl/project/get-harry-mattick-2013-european-figure-skating-championship.