GYMNASTICS: SIX gymnasts from Trowbridge have pulled off a fine victory despite having limited training facilities.

Gymnasts from the WSC Gymnastics Club, based at Writhlington School in Radstock, won the second match of the West Country League gymnastics competition held at Fromeside Gymnastics Club, Winterbourne, Bristol.

Naomi Jones (captain, aged 12), Tiffany Butcher (15), Carley Hounsell (15), Amelia Griffin (11), Bethany Hounsell (11) and Rebecca Tamin (11) finished the team event eight points clear of the second place team, Baskervilles Gym Club from Bath.

Individually the Writhlington team took gold (Amelia Griffin), silver (Bethany Hounsell) and bronze (Rebecca Tamin).

The team have recently moved to Writhlington Sports Centre, Radstock, with their senior coach of six years Kelly Belbin, also from Trowbridge.

Since September they have had access to limited equipment consisting of a vault, a training beam and a hard floor area, making training for this competition particularly challenging.

WSC have been lucky enough to be able to take advantage of the facilities at the Wiltshire School of Gymnastics on three occasions in order to prepare for the competition.

Belbin said: "It will therefore be extremely gratifying to be training in a fully equipped gym as of November, when the hall that the gymnasts are currently training in is transformed with a brand new floor, viewing gallery for parents and specialist gymnastic equipment for the gymnasts to use.

"We did not have high expectations for this last competition due to our circumstances, however, the results would suggest that the girls' talent and ability has shone through despite the situation they have been faced with and that dedication and hard work can go a long way, along with the support and backing of a good sports facility."

The gymnasts are now in training for the West Country League finals which will be held at the City of Bristol Gymnastic Club on November 12, and are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their new equipment.

Said Belbin: "WSC Gymnastics Club would like to offer their thanks to all who have supported them during this difficult transition including parents, coaches and other gymnastics clubs."

Anyone interested in starting gymnastic lessons should contact Writhlington Sports Centre, Radstock, on (01761) 438559. The club will also be holding an open day in the new year.