Horley's Springfit Gymnastics and Trampolining Club has presented an annual award in memory of a talented youngster to one of its nine-year-old members.

Abbie James from Horley has been awarded the club's coveted Fay Greene Award for Progress in Gymnastics trophy.

Abbie won the trophy for her outstanding achievements at the club throughout the last year.

The Fay Greene Award is presented in memory of the talented youngster who sadly died at the age of 14 in 1998.

Provided by her parents, the trophy is awarded to the gymnast who, in the opinion of the club's coaches, has made the most progress in the previous year.

Adam Reynolds of Springfit Gymnastics and Trampolining Club said: “The award came as a pleasant surprise to Abbie, who has been with the club since December 2010, and who, after having no gymnastics background, has progressed from an improvers class to advanced - and was even invited into Springfit’s Elite squad at their Oakwood Sports Centre training venue last year.”

Mr Reynolds said: “Although there was significant debate over the short-list by head coaches at the club, the achievement was obviously well-deserved for Abbie, who has improved steadily every month.”

He said: “She has shown a great enthusiasm for the sport, practising all the time at home and working hard in class to improve her over-all ability. “Abbie is always out in the garden during summer months perfecting her skills and using self-motivation to increase her flexibility and strength.

“The extra practice didn’t go unnoticed by her proud coaches, who consider Abbie to be a fantastic role model for all gymnasts in her determination and enjoyment of the sport.”

Springfit run gymnastics and trampoline classes for all ages and abilities from pre-school to adult, and have several training venues in Redhill, Horley and Crawley.

For more details call Adam Reynolds on 07932 752 081, email Info@springfit.org or visit www.springfit.org