THREE of the Stratton-based Esprit gymnastics made up part of the Wiltshire team in the South West Floor and Vault championships.

Despite being two team members short, Daisy Rolt (12) and Emily Upshall (13) were part of the modified FIG section that claimed the overall team bronze at the City of Bristol Gymnastics Academy.

Both girls were an important part of a mixed age range and their performance more than justified their selection.

In the full FIG section, which is marked under Olympic rules, Courtney Hows (12) was part of the silver medal winning team even though they were again one team member short.

The result for Courtney was just the start of an exciting two weeks and just the preparation required for her participation in the British Espoir' Championships, held in Gloucester, where she confirmed her position as one of the nation's most accomplished artistic gymnasts.

Courtney's excellent achievement however, comes at an uneasy time for the club, who are desperately trying to win the support of Swindon Borough Council to help them relocate to a more appropriate facility.

Club chairman Mark Hows said: "We have proven Swindon wants what Esprit provides and we have been trying to talk with the council for six years, all to no avail.

"We have therefore launched an online' petition asking the Prime Minister himself to intervene and insist Swindon Borough Council help us continue our important work with a sport that is a fundamental part of the National Curriculum."

Anyone wanting to get involved and help Esprit's cause can sign the petition online at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Esprit/