A TALENTED young gymnast has flown the flag for the North-East by finishing in the top ten of the English Championships.

Francesca Ryman, 11, from Heighington, travelled to Loughborough University to compete against 65 regional finalists from across the UK, many of whom were up to two years older and more experienced than her.

Despite being unwell with whooping cough on the day, Francesca delivered in vault, bars, beam and the floor to such a high standard to be awarded an impressive eight place overall.

Francesca, who attends Polam Hall School in Darlington, and trains 25 hours a week at South Durham Gymnastics Club in Spennymoor, attended the event in order to gain experience.

She had already shone at the sport’s largest northern event, the Alpha Factor Angel of the North, winning first place in February this year, and her club coaches are now even more delighted with her high ranking at national level.

“Francesca is a promising gymnast,” said coach Nicola Preston.

“She was fast-tracked into the British Elite Squad when she was only five-years-old and has performed at a consistently high level in major competitions ever since.

“She is extremely talented and hard working and deserves to do well.”

As well as early morning starts, Francesca’s training routine also requires her to miss school on Friday afternoons.

Polam Hall’s Headmaster, John Moreland, said Francesca’s dedication had to be applauded and encouraged.

He said: “As a school we believe in nurturing and supporting every child, not least if they show the determination and promise that Francesca does.

“Not only is she committed to her sport, she is also hard working in school and has the motivation and self-discipline to ensure she keeps up with her schoolwork.”