First published on Tuesday 03 February 2004

Gym'll fix it for athletes
by Victoria Tagg

SWINDON gymnasts are leaping for joy because they at last have somewhere proper to practise. The Esprit Gymnastics Academy has been waiting for 30 years to find suitable premises where gymnasts can fulfil their potential.

Now the group, which teaches some 300 pupils, has moved into an 8,000 sq ft training facility in Hobley Drive, Stratton St Margaret. Mark Hows, 43, Esprit business manager, said: "We are over the moon. The facilities are fantastic and our students just cannot get enough of them. "Now the sky really is the limit with their achievements."

Nearly 200 gymnasts, from five-year-olds to adults, flocked to the training facility for their first lesson at the site ú which is being rented on a ten year lease ú on Saturday. Mr Hows said: "The atmosphere was brilliant. Friends and family of our students came along to help celebrate."

The self-funded academy has spent about £50,000 on the new building, which includes a dance studio and café. Previously the academy met at the Ridgeway Leisure Centre, in Wrough-ton, and at Wanborough Primary School.

Last November the academy won planning permission to transform the industrial unit in Hobley Drive, after numerous setbacks. The group was set to move into a former caravan showroom in Blunsdon last September. But the owner of the building eventually decided not to lease is out.

Builders are currently completing the finishing touches. Mr Hows said: "The pits are being built next week and the viewing window, for parents and supporters to watch from, should be ready in the next few days."

Katy Smith, 29, is one of 17 coaches at the academy. She said: "This is a fantastic new beginning. We can at last all practise together and feel part of one team working towards the same gymnastic goals."

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