City of Sheffield Gymnastics Club, which operates out of Don Valley Stadium, has achieved British Gymnastics GymMark status.

It means that the club is recognised by British Gymnastics, Sport England and the Home Country Sports Councils as a safe, effective and child-friendly club, providing a service in the community, that children and young people, their parents or carers, and others with an interest in gymnastics, can trust.

The club started training at the facility in 1998 and has 15 members aged between nine and 15 who compete in county, regional and national events. More than 160 youngsters aged between three and 16 also take part in recreational classes from beginner to advanced level.

A team of eight girls recently represented the club in the South Yorkshire four piece competition levels six and seven and won a total of 23 medals.

Club Secretary Jenny Ross said: "We're delighted to receive this award. It recognises best practice within the club and demonstrates our high standards of coaching and safety and that we have addressed important issues such as equality and child protection.

"It provides an excellent foundation for continuing our club development and means that we will receive additional support and advice from British Gymnastic to further develop the skills of everyone involved in the club.

"Don Valley Stadium is a fantastic place to train and we are hugely grateful for the support they have given us. Last year we were awarded a grant of £13,000 for new equipment, with Don Valley contributing £6,000, and this has contributed to another highly successful year for the club."