PUPILS at Trellech Primary School welcomed a Commonwealth gold medalist last week.

Welsh rhythmic gymnast Francesca ’Frankie’ Jones spent the day at the school last Thursday (14th January), talking to pupils and running a series of exercise workshops.

PE coordinator Jane Foster said: “Frankie spoke to pupils during a special assembly, inspiring the pupils with tales of her achievements and some practical demonstrations.

“The pupils really responded to her, embracing the challenges of the workshops, while learning some basic gymnastic moves.

“The use of Frankie’s ribbon was a particular highlight for many of the children, as was the opportunity to quiz a top class athlete about her journey to the top. They all had their autograph books handy and Frankie even let the pupils hold her Commonwealth medals, which was a real treat!”

Frankie represented Wales at three successive Commonwealth Games, winning gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in the ribbon event in rhythmic gymnastics. She also won the David Dixon Award, which award goes to a single athlete at each Games based on their overall performance, contribution to their team and commitment to fair play.

The cabinet member for education, councillor Liz Hacket Pain, said: “It is essential we encourage children to lead fit, active lives and sports stars such as Frankie help inspire them to do so.

“The promotion of physical education and sport is an integral part of this, as we aim to instil a healthy outlook on life among our young people.

“I’m delighted the pupils responded to Frankie’s visit and hope it will inspire some of them to follow in her footsteps and represent Wales on the international stage.

“Her messages of never giving up and always trying your hardest are key life lessons and reflect an attitude to which we should all aspire.”

The visit was organised by Sport Wales and Monmouthshire council’s sport development team, after all schools in the county completed Sport Wales’ biannual school sport survey. Each school went into a prize draw to receive a visit from a Welsh sports star.

Sports development officer Paul Sullivan said: “Our aim is to get every child hooked on sport, taking part at least three times a week. This figure currently stands at 49 per cent in Monmouthshire and is above the national average. This has increased seven per cent since 2013, which is approximately a further 2,500 children and young people taking part in regular physical activity in Monmouthshire.

“Our team is committed to working with schools and the community to provide further opportunities for young people in Monmouthshire.”

For more information about sports development, visit monmouthshiresportawards.co.uk