Last updated 12:11, Friday, 19 September 2008

OLYMPIC gymnast Beth Tweddle received a warm welcome from pupils at Maryport’s Netherhall School.

Beth, 23, of Liverpool, joined the youngsters at the school’s annual prize-giving.

Beth, who narrowly missed out on a bronze medal for her performance on the bars at this year’s Olympic Games in Beijing, presented awards at the event.

She said: “It’s an honour to have been invited to speak at tonight’s presentation and its flattering that so many of the kids here see me as an inspirational figure. I’m pleased to see so many youngsters getting involved in sports.”

All year groups from Netherhall School were acknowledged, from year seven to sixth form graduates.

Awards covered all subjects on the national curriculum, service to the community, young enterprise schemes, outstanding performance and excellent attendance.

Speaking about her Olympic experience, Beth added: “Competing in the Olympics was an amazing experience.

“I’ve been training since I was eight years old so to compete for the UK was a dream come true.

“I’m gutted that I missed out on a medal but I hope to improve that at the 2012 games which will be my last competition.”

At an earlier ceremony, pupils from Broughton Moor Primary School, Crosscanonby St John’s CE School, Dearham Primary School, Ellenborough and Ewanrigg Infant School, Ewanrigg Junior School, Flimby Primary School, Grasslot Infant School, Maryport Infant School, Maryport CE Junior School, Netherton Infant School and Our Lady and St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School were honoured for their contribution to sport.