TOP shooter and Olympic hopeful Georgina Geikie spent time meeting local people in Okehampton last week.

'Gorgs', from South Tawton, went along to the Okehampton branch of Lloyds TSB on Wednesday November 24, making an appearance as part of the bank's 'Local Heroes' project.

After a presentation and question and answer session with staff at the bank, Gorgs met customers and chatted about her training, preparation for London 2012, and her recent experiences at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, where she won a bronze medal.

Gorgs bought her medal — as well as a shawl presented to all athletes — along with her, and had great fun comparing her metalware with that worn by Okehampton mayor Cllr Michael Morse.

Gorgs said she was really excited to be approached about being the bank's local hero.

She said: 'It's really cool — I've banked with Lloyds forever, and so have my family.

'I know all the staff here and they're so friendly and helpful.

'When I heard about the project I decided it would be a great thing to get involved with.

'I'm so thankful for the support of the local people, who I know are behind me all the way, so that's why it's nice to spend time here.'

The local heroes project aims to recognise and support local sporting hopefuls around the country, helping them keep their dreams alive on their journey to London 2012.

The bank provides the athletes with exposure and funding, which has been essential to Gorgs after she recently lost her funding from British Shooting.

The bank has given her a grant of £1,000 which will pay for all her expenses for one international competition.

Julie Winsor, branch manager at Lloyds TSB Okehampton, said: 'This project is really important to us as a branch and Lloyds TSB as an organisation.

'The presentation Gorgs gave was great for our staff, but more than that, it's our chance to show we're passionate about the local community.'