Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

THE Olympian Daniel Purvis hosted a special masterclass for young gymnasts as part of the Summer of Sport at Liverpool ONE.

The former Team GB gymnast, who won a historic bronze medal in the team event at the London 2012 Olympic Games, led the programme today (Friday 9 August) at the official Team GB Fanzone at Liverpool ONE, teaching youngsters new moves and coaching them on how to enhance their skillset.

After London 2012, Dan added a World Championship silver and bronze to his collection, as well as five Commonwealth Games medals for Team Scotland. He is now a coach for the next generation of young gymnasts.

Today, Daniel hosted a Q&A session, giving fans and aspiring athletes the opportunity to find out more about his journey and get expert advice on how to follow in his footsteps.

Daniel, 33, who is originally from Crosby, said:- "I'm delighted to have been invited to this event, helping to showcase the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games at the Team GB Fanzone, Liverpool ONE. Hopefully we can inspire the present and future generations to become involved in one sport or another with all the benefits that can bring. I've always loved meeting members of the public to chat about exciting sporting events and this is another opportunity to enjoy doing that and to describe my personal experiences at a major Games events. I'm also looking forward to using my coaching experience with some of the young gymnasts taking part today. I hope the adults and children who visit the Fanzone will enjoy a fantastic day and take home some lasting memories."

During the event, children from Wirral Gymnastics Club and Liverpool-based HPL Gymnastics, plus members of the public, were shown how to perfect their moves and hone their talent.

Michelle Stalker, Head Coach at Wirral Gymnastics Club, said:- "It's been fantastic to meet Daniel today and our gymnasts have loved getting 1 to 1 coaching from him. They have been inspired by his story and have enjoyed getting his expert advice on how to improve their performance."

Daniel's visit was part of Summer of Sport at Liverpool ONE, which includes:- a giant screen on Chavasse Park, giving sporting fans the chance to cheer on their heroes during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE, said:- "We’re incredibly excited to have had Daniel Purvis join us to share his skills and meet local fans. He's an extremely accomplished athlete who has represented the country multiple times, so it's fantastic to have welcomed him to Liverpool ONE during our Summer of Sport and pass on his expert advice to young gymnasts. As the hosts of 1 of Team GB's 9 Official Fanzones, we've been able to offer our visitors the chance to watch the games and cheer on Team GB and, it's great to see everyone enjoying the park and getting into the spirit!"

For further information about Summer of Sports and the Team GB & ParalympicsGB Fanzone, visit:- Liverpool-ONE.Com.