A SCHOOLGIRL from Mere has been selected to train with the Great British gymnastics development squad.

Ten-year-old Jasmine Harkin will be attending training throughout the next year with nine other selected gymnasts.

Jasmine has been a member of the Port Regis Gymnastics Club for the last four years, since a teacher at Mere Primary School spotted her talent and arranged for specialist training.

She trains for more than 15 hours a week at the club and took part in the British Elite Championships on November 5 in Guildford against top gymnasts from across the country, coming in fourth overall.

Her mother Karen said: “She’s coped really well with combining her training with her school work so far. Next year will mean lots of changes – a new school, all the extra travelling plus school and homework that goes with it, as well as intensive gymnastic training.”

Jasmine, who is ranked seventh in Great Britain for her age category, is currently looking for sponsorship to help with extra travel and tuition costs. For more information, contact Karen through Mere Primary School on 01747 860515.