The Mars Refuel Drink Fund has returned for its fourth year, once again helping people overcome the financial barriers to sport by offering £500 awards to successful applicants.

A survey undertaken by Mars revealed more than a fifth of people feel they don’t have enough money to start participating in sport, or to keep that involvement going, with cycling, tennis and cricket believed to be the most expensive sports to take up.

Since its initial launch in 2008, the fund has helped more than 15,000 people. The 2011 fund has £5,000 to donate each month from April 2 to September 30.

The fund is open to residents of, and clubs and organisations based in, the UK and Republic of Ireland only. Applicants must be aged 12 or over and only one application will be accepted per person, club or organisation.

Applications can be made online at www.marsrefuel.com