WEEKS of training has paid off for a Cinderford school who has been crowned the Forest of Dean Primary Schools Gymnastic Championship 2016 winners.

St Anthony’s School were among nine schools competing for the title at the Forest of Dean Gymnastic Centre at Five Acres.

The competition was held in four rounds and gymnasts entered one of four levels with their scores contributing to a school team score.

St Anthony’s also received many certificates and medals. Three students received trophies for top scorers: Isobel Moger at Level One, James Hadfield at Level Three and Isobelle Arnott at Level Four.

Coached by Elaine Hillary, the school has entered the competition every year since it started in 2001 with great success. They were champions in 2002 and 2003 and runners-up in 2006. They were presented with the Forest of Dean Shield by Bernard Rogers, President of the Royal Forest of Dean Rotary Club.

Ellwood Primary School was second with Mitcheldean Endowed Primary in third place. Mr Rogers presented all three schools with silver trophies.

All competing gymnasts received a certificate and first, second and third winners received medals. Individual trophies were awarded to the highest scoring gymnasts across the day from each level.

The Brace family, who represented Ellwood School, took home a trio of medals with five-year-old Blake-Lea winning silver at Level One, Keeland, gold at Level Two and Karis, a silver medal at Level Two.

Between rounds the gymnasts were treated to displays of floor routines by Forest of Dean Gymnastics Club Squad members Grace Treharne and Lily Brain.

A raffle was held to raise funds towards a new floor area for the gymnastics centre which is 20 years-old in June.

Coach Mrs Elaine Hillary said: “I am so proud of the students. They all did so well. The effort and determination paid off and shows how much hard work they all put in. Well done.”