FOLLOWING Max Whitlock's sensational gold medals in Rio  it is hoped that some of the stars of the future could come from South Ayrshire, as the Council prepares to roll out a year-long series of events. 

It was Team GB's first medal in the Olympic event in 108 years and the Learn 2 Gymnastics programme gets underway on August 22 at activity centres across the area to encourage South Ayrshire' youths to follow in Whitlock's steps. 

Last year’s programme was a huge success with more than 350 gymnasts taking part in the Annual Gymnastics Display at the Citadel Leisure Centre in Ayr. The display brought together young people from classes across South Ayrshire in centres including: Mossblown, Coylton, Muirhead, Whitletts, and the Citadel.

Gymnastic classes cater for 400 girls and boys aged from 18 months through to teenagers. As part of the programme a development class helps to prepare budding athletes from recreational activity through to competition. The latter focuses on 5-8 year olds showing promise who could go on to team-up with competitive clubs.

Bill Grant, South Ayrshire Council’s Economic Development, Tourism & Leisure Portfolio Holder, said the 2016 programme would be a huge success, “This year’s Olympics are showcasing the best gymnastics in the world, but be in no doubt that each and every one of the competitors started out at a local club.

“We hope hundreds of young people will be inspired by the Games, and our gymnastics programme has something to offer to children of differing abilities with a big thanks to all the staff coaches and volunteers that will help to make this happen.

“From pre-school fun through to serious competition, we’ve got a great track record of working with young people to help them to stay fit, while giving additional support for people that might want to progress to competitive sports.”

The Learn 2 Gymnastics programme gets underway on Monday 22nd August. For a full run down on costs and how to book into classes please visit the website.