LETTER: Success of gym club continues

Back in the dark ages of 1972 a young gymnast, at the age of 17, by the name of Olga Korbut from the Soviet Union, won gold at the Olympics held in Germany. This feat inspired many young people here in Crawley to want to become gymnasts. At this time there was nothing available. Jack Fidgett, manager of the then Crawley Leisure Centre, was approached but did not think there was a need however if it could be proved that there was he would be willing to consider it. A new gym teacher at Thomas Bennett Comprehensive School, Anne Mathieson, was willing to give her time and see if something could be done. So, probably September 1973, at the then Lower School, a tentative session started on a Saturday morning. Very quickly this became so popular that we had four classes divided into age ranges with a long waiting list. The rest is history, it became what it it is today thanks to many keen voluntary people who kept it going until it was proved there was definitely a need and it was moved to the leisure centre which by that time had a sports hall.

If by any chance you were part of this wonderful club perhaps you would like to send your memories of it to the paper.

J A Elmer

Tilgate

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