BUDDING Fenland gymnasts could soon have the opportunity to use impressive new facilities thanks to the meteoric rise of a West Walton gymnastics club. The West Walton Community Gym Club, which started last year as an after-school club at West Walton Prim

BUDDING Fenland gymnasts could soon have the opportunity to use impressive new facilities thanks to the meteoric rise of a West Walton gymnastics club.The West Walton Community Gym Club, which started last year as an after-school club at West Walton Primary School, currently has more than 80 members and it has become so popular that many more children have had to be turned away.However, the club's coaches, Stewart and Kirstie Harrison, from West Walton, are taking steps to find and equip a new larger premises that will allow the club to expand and attract gymnasts from throughout Fenland.Husband and wife, Stewart, 28, and Kirstie, 30, are both fully qualified gymnastics coaches. Stewart, who runs his own carpentry business, HB Services, and Kirstie, a full time gymnastics instructor at West Walton Primary School, believe that investment in the club will benefit the local community. Stewart said: "There are very few gymnastics clubs in Fenland and we have been inundated by people interested in joining ours."All children should have access to gymnastics facilities but there is a shortage of school clubs and we understand how difficult it can be for parents to get their children involved in the sport."He added: "Because we have outgrown the school hall we are now actively seeking new premises and equipment so that we can offer coaching to a wider area and more people."Former county squad member Kirstie said: "We are also keen to bring new coaches to the club. Our coach development programme will cover the costs of training for people who wish to become fully qualified, accredited coaches." She added: "In the future, we want to offer classes for girls and boys of all abilities. There will be baby, pre-school, recreational, competitive and adult classes and sessions tailored for the disabled."Stewart and Kirstie have already procured new equipment for the club and will hope to build on the successes of several of the club's young gymnasts in local, county and regional competitions. Thanks to a sponsorship deal with PH Door Services, all existing and new members will receive free gymnastics kit and the use of a new inflatable tumble track, sprung floor, beams and sets of bars. However, the search for new premises is the priority. Stewart said: "We are desperately looking for a new home so that we can move forward. Hopefully, someone will come forward to provide us with suitable premises for the club in the near future." Anyone who is interested in joining West Walton Community Gym Club as a gymnast or a coach should call Kirstie on 07961 825220. Individuals who may be able to rent out premises to the club should contact Stewart on 07885 933213.