A former GB World Champion gymnast who retired from competition earlier this year has become the specialist Gymnastics coach for SSP, a Wakefield-based School Sports Partnership.

Ashleigh Long, 20, of Sharlston, Wakefield in West Yorkshire, is a product of the successful Wakefield Gym Club and hosts her own classes across various evenings during the week.

Previously a Crofton Academy pupil, who trains with the Wakefield Gym Club tumblers, Ashleigh has been doing gymnastics since she was six and has competed all over the world.

She was among club members representing Great Britain in the Gymnastics World Cup in Sofia, Bulgaria in October 2012 when, during a performance before the panel of judges, she landed awkwardly, tearing all the ligaments on the outer part of her ankle.

Her recovery was well documented and owed much to the specialist responsible for her care but since then, her progress has earned her both European and World Championship Gold medals.

Now a qualified Level 2 Gymnastics Coach, Ashleigh offers fun, engaging and challenging lessons based around physical development, flexibility, coordination, balance and core strength.

Ashleigh said, “I’m delighted to partner with SSP and offer high quality sessions to schools all over the district. I love helping children develop through gymnastics the same way I did from a young age.”

SSP works with primary, secondary and special schools to develop opportunities in Physical Education, School Sport and Physical Activity.

As a ‘Not-for-profit’ organisation there are many benefits hidden within their ‘Affiliate School’ packages. They inspire and motivate young people in PE & School Sport through high quality events that encourage them to be active and healthy.

They build and support a network of teachers and support staff with confidence, skills and knowledge to deliver an outstanding PE and School sport experience for young people.

SSP advocate the importance of Physical Education and School sport through providing national and local updates, developing and sharing good practice and demonstrating impact.