Regular classes for children aged between 4 and 12 at four of Gwynedd Council’s leisure centres have led to an increase of over 66% of those taking part.

The total number of children following gymnastics classes at Plas Silyn, Penygroes, Arfon Leisture Centre, Caernarfon, Plas Ffrancon, Bethesda, has gone up from 226 last July to 341 now with brand new classes established at Glaslyn Leisure Centre, Porthmadog for the first time.

To celebrate the end of a successful year, a special day of competitions was recently held between the four leisure centres at Plas Silyn Leisure Centre Penygroes. Following a day of keen competing among 207 children, Plas Ffrancon were the winners, and were awarded a trophy to mark the occasion.

The day was organised by Gwynedd Council’s North Leisure Centre Gymnastics Development Officer, David Wyn Morris, who has been coaching the children at the four centres.

“Whilst all the children competed as individuals, the four judges also kept an average score for each leisure centre, and at the end of the day, Plas Ffrancon were the winners,” he explained.

“We had a brilliant day, and the children are to be commended for their hard work and dedication – and it was great to see them enjoying themselves.”

Paul Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for leisure, said:

“The increased take-up of gymnastics among children in these four leisure centres is most encouraging, and were are very pleased with the success of the competition day.

“Gymnastics is an excellent physical activity for children’s health, fitness and well-being, and it is great to see them involved from a young age.”