FOREST gymnast Coral Prout struck silver as runner up in the vault at the British Challenge Championships in Aldershot at the weekend.

Coral, 16, who performed a piked Tsukahara, is the first Forest of Dean gymnast to have been entered in the event, which is just one level below the British Championships.

She lives in Whitecroft and trains at the Forest of Dean Gymnastics Club at Five Acres.

Coral opened confidently on vault facing strong competition from gymnasts from clubs across Britain.

On beam, not her favourite piece, Coral included new difficulty in her routine safely landing her back somersault and her round-off twisting dismount.

Floor was the last piece and as she set off confidently for her opening double twist tumble unfortunately Coral jarred her knee on landing causing a stumble.

Despite this she continued to complete the routine with full difficulty, even finishing with a twist.

"To gain a medal placing in your first competition at this level is a great credit both to Coral and her coach," said spokesman Lyn Hammersley.

Coral is one of three gymnasts from the club selected to travel to Florida to compete in the Magical Classic next February.