A British gymnast has visited a primary school in Deane to talk to the children about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Olympic Bronze medallist,  three times World Champion and six-time European Champion, Beth Tweddle, visited Haslam Park Primary School, Wigan Road, hosting an assembly on why physical exercise is so important.

Meeting with the children at the school, Beth explored the reasons why physical exercise is beneficial and the children talked about strong healthy bodies and minds.

She talked about her career, including her Olympic and World Championship successes and she even did the splits for the school and met the school’s learning council and showed them her Olympic medal.

The Bolton News: Beth showing the school how to do the splitsBeth showing the school how to do the splits (Image: Haslam Park Primary School)

Headteacher Kati-Anne Roughley said: “The children listened beautifully and asked insightful questions such as, "Who inspired you" and "How did you cope with injuries?

“We were so excited to welcome Beth to school, the children were a credit to us and listened to her motivational speaking with interest.

“Many of the children are now going to use the free passes Beth gave them to try a session completely for free and they said that they loved the experience.

“Myself and three pupils met King Charles III, so the children said we have gone from the King of England to the Queen of gymnastics!

“At Haslam Park we are committed to developing all aspects of our children's health both physical and mental as well as their academic growth and seeing Beth certainly inspired our children today."

The Bolton News: Beth giving an assembly about the benefits of a healthy lifestyleBeth giving an assembly about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle (Image: Haslam Park Primary School)

Askar Ahmed, 10, said: "I thought that it was very exciting to meet an Olympic gymnast, when I was younger I wanted to be a gymnast but I gave up.

“Now I might try it again."

Falamatu Kadir, 6, said: "I think I might try gymnastics now, I learnt a lot today.

“I learnt about gym equipment, and it was really fun."

After the special visit, every child received a free gymnastics sessions at one of Beth's gyms and Ms Roughley said she hopes that the session will inspire future Olympians.