FOREST gymnastics stalwart Lynn Hammersley was publicly thanked for her 45 years of commitment to the sport in the area.

The engine behind the Forest Gymnastics Centre at Five Acres was recently presented with the MBE but one of her former pupils thought that Lynn’s many friends should also honour her.

Former Dean gymnastics champion Rachel Sutton organised the surprise presentation of a trophy and a bunch of flowers.

Mayor of Coleford Cllr Nick Penny made the presentation during a break in the Forest gymnastics championship on Saturday (March 14).

The inscription on the plaque read: “Lynn For services to Gymnastics, Fitness and the Community in the Forest of Dean

Rachel said: “We wanted to publicly recognise the work Lynn has done for 45 years and in particular for gymnastics in the Forest of Dean.

“On the occasion of the

“None of this would be possible without her.

“It started in humble beginnings at the primary school in Berry Hill.

“The class started with one hour per week for 30 but because it was so popular it grew and grew.

“This fantastic facilty was devised by Lynn, the land was acquired by her.

“Without her it would not be here and the Forest of Dean would miss out.

“This year Lynn received the MBE for all her dedication and we wanted to publicly recognise that and say thank you for your contribution to the Forest of Dean.”

Cllr Penny told Lynn: “It was a great honour when Rachel approached us to support the nomination.

“We discussed it as a town council and everyone was fully aware of the commitment you’ve given the community for decades.

“It is a great honour to come on behalf of the town council to formally recognise the great accolade you were given.

“Congratulations and thank you – it is very well deserved.”

Lynn said: “Rachel was one of my original champions.

“She was very talented and her family was very supportive in raising money to provide mats for the club

“When I received a letter in the middle of November from the Prime Minister saying I’d be nominated for an MBE I was highly honoured and absolutely amazed.

“It was Rachel who had written to the honours committee and did an awful lot of work

“Gymnasts are all special but some you build a bond with and their families and we go through the journey together.

“I asked my husband if he did it but when he told me it was Rachel it made it even more special because it was an ex gymnast of mine.

“Gymnastics has turned out to be my life and I still love it

“Thanks to Nick and to the town council for supporting the application.”