Emily Allen, a promising acrobatic gymnast from Thame, is celebrating after receiving a £500 donation from the Mars Refuel Drink Fund.

The 12-year-old, who is on a world class development programme in acrobatic gymnastics, won two gold medals and one silver medal for Great Britain last year.

She also won gold at the Flanders International Acro Cup, a six-day international event in Belgium, and is the reigning British Tournament champ-ion.

Her coach, Caroline Day at the Oxford School of Gymnastics, said: “Emily trains six days a week, combining training, school work and family life and is one of the most dedicated and committed gymnasts we have in our squad.

“Not only is she physically talented, but she is also very mentally strong and will do anything to represent and win medals for her country.”

Allen is planning to compete in numerous international events next year, in order to prepare for the European Championships in October 2011 and the World Championships in 2012.

“Elite level gymnastics is extremely expensive and is almost entirely funded by the gymnast themselves,” Day added.

“Even when they are selected to represent their country it is still self-funded, until the gymnast reaches 15 years of age and senior level. “This donation will make a huge difference to Emily’s career by helping her fulfil her dream of being the best in the world.”

The fund, set up in 2008, has helped more than 10,000 sports clubs and individuals to extend the sporting careers.