Leisure trust Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) has teamed up with British Gymnastics (BG) to launch a new concept aiming to increase participation in the sport.

The joint scheme will see all GLL-operated leisure centres become BG Proficiency Centres which will be updated to conform to British Gymnastics delivery guidelines.

The relationship will also see all recreational gymnastic courses held within GLL-managed leisure centres adhere to BG guidelines, with all coaches and young gymnasts registered with the BG. GLL gymnastic courses will also introduce the BG proficiency scheme.

Ian Fordham, British Gymnastics marketing director, said: “We are committed to improving participation numbers in the sport and promoting best practice.

“The leisure centre sector currently accommodates 250,000 children outside of the NGB embrace and we see this initiative as a means of assuring quality provision.”

To celebrate the launch, a gymnastic extravaganza was held at Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre, Camden on Wednesday 9th April. Visitors to the centre had the opportunity to see gymnasts Gary Smith, Louis Smith and Daniel Keatings in action on the pommel horse and trampoline.