A new gymnastics club for kids has launched in Berkshire by a leading GB championship gymnast.

Courtney Howe, 28, decided to open Esprit Kids with the aim of allowing kids the chance to explore the sport in a safe and fun environment.

Alongside other skilled teachers, Courtney said her goal is to inspire the next generation to love gymnastics as much as she does.

She said: “At Esprit Kids, we simply teach a sport we love to every child, no matter what their innate abilities may be. One thing my experience has taught me is, every child is unique and they all progress at their own pace.

“So, if you teach them well and make sure it’s fun, there is no telling what they can go on to achieve, they just need to be nurtured in a safe, happy, fun environment.

“Over the years I have spoken to a lot of parents, and all they really want is a happy healthy, confident child who is safe and has fun. If they learn impressive gymnastic skills along the way then all the better!

“This is the reason I started Esprit Kids, to teach children the enormous benefits that comes with learning the sport I love, whilst still encouraging them to, just be kids and have fun and it’s only right that parents have somewhere to relax and enjoy watching their children as well."

Classes at Esprit Kids are designed to be small in order for trained instructors to help the child on a one-to-one basis.

The Swindon born British gymnastics champion was first inspired to create a club with a difference following controversies and allegations of body shaming and bullying within the sport.

Having experienced this over the years she decided to design a programme and centre that would nurture talent and create a fun and comfortable environment for kids and parents.

Courtney added: “I have known for a long time the sport needed change and recent negative coverage only proved to me, it needed to change now!

"Ultimately Esprit is a fun, exciting way to teach children, keep them fit, improve their self-esteem and develop skills that will last a lifetime.”

The new club and learning centre opened on March 15 at Esprit Kids, 4 King Street Lane Winnersh RG41 5AS.