YOUNG gymnasts are celebrating a £12,000 grant to develop their sport around Bishop Auckland.
The town's gym club at Bishop Barrington School has won cash from the Community Network and Local Network Funds.
The club runs weekly sessions for 50 children and will use the grant to foster and promote children's gymnastics in Wear Valley.
The youngsters tried out new equipment, including floor mats, and the funding will also help with venue hire, coach training, insurance, affiliation and transport.
Volunteer Karen Jackson said she was delighted funding bodies had recognised the impact which their sport is having in the community.
Wear Valley Sports Club Development Officer Nigel Douthwaite said: "The timing of this bid success is particularly important as 2005 is the year of the volunteer, and the theme for February is young people.
"This funding is recognition for 18 months of hard work by the committee, their volunteers and coaches."
The club would welcome any new coaches to contact Mr Douthwaite on (01388) 765555 ext 403.
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