A BOLTON gymnastics coach has had her expertise, passion and inspiration for the sport recognised in a prestigious national initiative.

Kathryn Featherstone, gymnastics co-ordinator at the USN Bolton Arena, has been awarded a baton in the Pass On Your Passion initiative aimed at inspiring more women to get into coaching.

Kathryn has now passed on the baton to Kayleigh Scott who has started volunteering in gymnastics at the Arena.

Kathryn took up gymnastics at the age of nine and, during a highly successful career in the sport, represented England against the world’s best.

She also went into coaching early, taking her qualifications under British Gymnastics, and is a Level Three coach.

Kathryn has had a 15-year career in coaching and leads the gymnastics programme at the Arena where her colleagues describe her as an inspiring and enthusiastic coach who is an excellent role model for fellow coaches, young gymnasts and her organisation colleagues.

Anyone interested in training to become a gymnastics teacher – no previous experience is necessary – should call Sue Hayes on 01204 488142 or email suehayes@boltonarena.com