June 30, 2005

Beth's send-off for an extra special mission

Liverpool Echo

MERSEYSIDE gymnasts are on a special mission this weekend - and they have the support of a famous Olympian in their quest for success.

They were excited that City of Liverpool star Beth Tweddle, who recently won three golds in the international against China at the Park Road Centre of Excellence, took time out from her hectic schedule to wish them all the best at the Special Olympics National Summer Games in Glasgow from July 2-9.

It is the largest sporting event in the UK this year, with 2,500 competitors taking part in 23 sports.

The Merseyside contingent, comprising 10 gymnasts from Liverpool Special Needs Gym Club and 18 from Brookfields (Widnes), held a final training session at Park Road which Beth attended.

They are part of the North West team of 48, whose ages range from eight-year-old Katie Hall to Philippa Sloane and Rachel Roche, who are 35.

Success could lead to selection for the Special Olympics World Games.