Sometimes it is tough for kids in outlying areas to take part in top-class sport in Scotland, so it was great that almost 200 competitors entered this month’s Highlands and Islands floor and vaulting competition in Inverness.

Organisd by Inverness Gymnastics Club, youngsters from the Isle of Lewis, Elgin, Forres, Kingussie, Caithness, and Shetland joined together for the fifth successive staging of the event. 

Since its inception, it has grown in numbers every year and involves a long and very packed day of competition for a variety of age-groups. 

Not surprisingly, most of the competitors were girls – but it is encouraging to hear that 16 boys – at least one from every club – also took part. 

Gymnastics is a great sport for all as it improves core strength, discipline, control and flexibility aiding youngsters with other sports in which they might take part in the future.