Top gymnast Ilisha Boardman is jumping for joy after being picked to represent Great Britain in the acrobatic European championships.

 

The talented teen from South Hiendley is hoping to jet off Portugal in October to fulfil her dream.

 

Ilisha, 17, will be joined by partner Yasmin Harper, 13.

Ilisha has been doing gymnastics since the age of ten and trains at Throne Park athletic stadium in Wakefield, six times a week, four hours a day.

 

She says gymnastics is her life and has a host of medals to her name, including being a three-time gold medallist at the Bulgarian championships in 2010 and a second place British championship medal this year.

 

"Being chosen for the team is a great honour and a dream of ours," Ilisha said.

 

"Our dream comes with a large price tag of up to £1,500 per person just for the competition itself and the bill is all left down to parents to pay for.

 

"Being parents they will do the best they can do to try and come up with the money but their efforts are not always achievable."

 

Ilisha said any help to allow them to compete would be much appreciated.

 

Anyone who wishes to help the girls should call Sylvia Charles on 07825557887.