Gymnasts in Sunderland enjoy return to the sport

AAAsports reopened again with a free socially distanced open day on 1 August for both members and non-members to take part in.

The club has raised £13,500 through matched funding donations from their members during lockdown, helping secure the future of the club. They have also delivered over 75 online classes to hundreds of club members, and say they have proven so popular they will continue.

Andi Revell, club manager, said: “Our members have shown us so much support whilst we've been closed - we really do appreciate every comment and donation we've received over lockdown and are excited to welcome everyone back to train with us.

"We are aware that this is just the beginning of a difficult time though, and we want all of our members to feel safe and confident when in classes with us. We're working hard to make sure that we're meeting all guidelines and adjusting our classes to make sure our club can continue to be sustainable for the future and hopefully come out of this better than ever!"

British Gymnastics’ President Helen Phillips MBE added: “Many young gymnasts have missed their friends and clubmates terribly over the past four months and will be overjoyed to be going back to their local club.

"All across the country, so many clubs have done amazing work to get ready to reopen in a Covid-safe environment.”