ELLIE GARGETT represented SEGC with distinction at this year’s English Championships at Loughborough University.

Ellie, 11, and her coach Leah Hickton were both making debuts at the event between April 7-9.

Leah said: “It was Ellie’s first time competing at this event and my first time as a coach, so it was a great experience for us to both to have together.

“Ellie was the younger of the two years as Espior is 11-12 year-olds, so it was a good experience to compete against older gymnasts.

“I’m very proud of her as she had a bit of a rough time on Beam but managed to compose herself and finish the other pieces fantastically.

“And she even got to wear a leotard that was specially designed by South Essex’s Amy Tinkler  – so she was super excited about that.

“It was the first time we’ve had girls competing at the English for a few years so we were proud to fly the flag for South Essex women.

“We now have another competition in a few weeks so this was a great experience to have in the build up to that.”