Gymnasts on way to USA for world championships

Ten members of Flic Flac Gymnastics Club, in Charnock Richard, near Chorley, will be heading to the USA next month to show off their skills.

They will compete against gymnasts from around the world after securing their places via the national championships in Milton Keynes.

Club secretary Richard Sumner, whose 16-year-old daughter Megan is one of the gymnasts, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have 10 girls going. It’s a fantastic achievement.

“The girls have earned the right to be there by competing at that level. It’s international honours for them which is fantastic.”

They will fly to Orlando, Florida, on June 22.

It is the third time members of Flic Flac have qualified for the world championships.

But it is an expensive trip, costing up to £1,500 for each girl, paid by their families.

A further £500 is needed to pay the competition entry and buy representative kit, such as leotards and tracksuits

The gymnasts are raising that money themselves and have already held cake sales, packed bags in supermarkets and organised a comedy night.

Richard is now appealing for anyone who can make a donation or sponsor the gymnasts to get in touch to help cover their costs.

He said: “Anything that they can raise is a benefit for the girls and their parents. It’s an expensive trip.

“We have to give them the opportunity to live their dream. I think it’s important. The children deserve the opportunity.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact head coach Fiona Begbie on 07971 604227.