The Forest of Dean Gymnastics and Fitness Centre in Coleford is to undergo urgent repairs essential to the running of the centre after the roof of the 30-year-old building began to leak, causing damage to expensive equipment and apparatus.
The facility has been a staple in the local community for decades, having coached children and teenagers, allowing them to grow through movement while improving their confidence, strength, flexibility and to develop new skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Preparing for a continuing wet winter, the centre is in need of essential repairs to its roof and is hoping this may soon be possible thanks to a donation of £1,500 from Barratt Homes' Community Fund.
Forest of Dean Gymnastics and Fitness Centre director, Lynn Hammersley, was awarded an MBE in the 2020 New Year Honours for services to gymnastics, fitness and the Forest of Dean community — after more than 45 years of commitment.
She said: 'Having built the centre from the ground up, I have witnessed its transformation into a place that produces champions and inspires the next generation — all while providing a community hub that brings families from the Forest of Dean together.'
Gymnasts from the club recently took home multiple gold and silver medals from the Gloucestershire Classic Challenge Championships in November 2023.
Though this is a step towards saving the space, the centre is still calling for donations to help with these essential repairs. Donations can be made by contacting Hammersley directly through the centre website.
