CONOR Irwin is looking forward competing against some of the best young trampolinists in the country after jumping up to the penultimate grade in British Gymnastics’ National Development Plan (NDP).

The Yatton Keynell 12-year-old, a pupil at Hardenhuish School, achieved his level seven ranking last month, which will allow him to compete at national level as he targets a spot at July’s NDP grades finals in Telford, in July.

The youngster, who trains with Team Bath Evolution trampoline club, also dives for West Wilts diving club and competed at a national showpiece last summer when he took to the board at the British Gas National Age Group Diving Championships.

Conor only took up trampolining to help develop his aerial technique as a diver.

“I’ve been diving for about two years and I’ve been doing trampolining for a lot less than that. I wasn’t supposed to be doing competitions at the start but when I had the chance, I thought ‘why not?’,” he said.

“I was edging towards wanting to do diving at my sport but now I’m competing in both. I’m going to be doing national competitions now – I’m excited about it and a bit nervous too.

“I’d love to be doing international trampolining. There are people that I compete against who do it for England and I’d love to do that myself one day.”

Conor is also part of the Hardenhuish key stage three team that qualified to represent North Wiltshire at the Wiltshire School Games county final in July.

PE teacher Sue Jenkins added: “Conor’s a very talented athlete and the team that he’s part of have got to the county final for the first time. Our beginner’s gymnastics team will also be there.”

Conor’s older sister and fellow Hardenhuish pupil Ciara, 14, also competes for Team Bath Evolution and West Wilts Diving Club, as well as Chippenham Amateur Swimming Club in synchronised swimming.

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