By Saul Cooke-Black

ASPIRING gymnasts were thrilled to meet Olympian and Strictly Come Dancing champion Louis Smith at a coaching course held at Wycliffe College.

The Olympic bronze and silver medalist came to meet future gymnasts on the second of a three day Louis Smith Gymnastics Academy course.

Harriet Barnard, aged nine, from Nailsworth, said: “It was amazing to meet Louis.

“I have seen him on TV and in the Olympics but I didn’t think I would ever get to meet him.

“I liked it when Louis told us that his favourite film was Frozen and he sang Let it Go to prove he knew all the words.

“I also liked it when he walked on his hands and answered some of the questions – I would love to be a gymnast when I grow up.”

Children got to ask Louis a range of questions ranging from what his proudest moment was to his favourite film.

The Strictly star also demonstrated some of his dance moves as pupils watched open mouthed at the Olympian walking on his hands.

Ollie Ward, 11, said: “I thought Louis was inspiring and attending the camp has been a lot of fun and hard work.

“I am doing gymnastics as I hope to be a professional footballer and gymnastics gives me core strength and discipline I will need to succeed.”

The Louis Smith Gymnastics Academy coaching course, for children aged five to 14, was hosted at Wycliffe College from Monday to Wednesday.