TWO Wirral gymnasts have returned home with a bronze medal after competing for Team GB at the European Championships.

Niamh McCartan, 15, and Beth Hodgson, 13, from Birkenhead Gymnastics Academy, received a bronze medal after competing against 28 of the very best partnerships in Europe.

The pair went into the lead after round one and after the second round qualified for the finals.

After going into a high-pressured final, the girls managed to produce one of their best performances and were awarded with a bronze medal.

Head coach at Birkenhead Gymnastics Academy and team manager Dawn Mitchell told the Globe: "It was amazing to see their names above some of the top countries in our sport - Russia, Belgium, Israel and Portugal to name just a few.

"Going into finals the girls were under a lot of pressure especially after seeing their GB teammates all win medals in their perspective categories.

"They held it together in a packed stadium 90% of the spectators cheering loudly for Israel and went and produced one of their best performances to win the bronze medal.

"As their team and personal coach I can only say throughout the entire week in Israel they were a credit to their country and club and we are all very, very proud of them.

"I would also like to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported the girls and donated to their fundraising page."

Niamh and Beth are now back in training and working towards selection to represent Team GB at the World Championships being held in Switzerland in May.