A YOUNG athlete from north Durham has become a national champion after taking part in a trampolining contest.

Nine-year-old Holly Robinson came first in the under-11 intermediate category of British Schools Competition in Birmingham recently.

Holly, who is a member of the Belle Vue Trampolining Club in Consett, County Durham, also won the regional qualifying competition in the nine to ten category at Bishop Auckland earlier this year.

Mother Clare Robinson said: “She loves taking part in the competitions and was overjoyed to win. We are very proud of her.”

Holly attends St Patrick's RC Primary, in Consett, has been trampolining for three-and-a-half years and has been with the club for two-and-a-half years.

Her coaches at Belle Vue are Gemma Proud and Jonelle Pye and the assistant coaches are Becky Davison and Jenna Dodds.

Mrs Robinson said: “She trains very hard and goes to the club three to four times a week. She rarely misses a session and is very dedicated.

“She likes the atmosphere and it is a lot of fun.”

The club meets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4pm to 6pm and Sunday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Casual sessions for non-members are on Thursdays 4.30pm to 6pm and Sundays from 9.30am to10.30pm.

To find out more about trampolining at Belle Vue Leisure Centre call 01207-218151.