BUDDING Blackpool gymnasts are in for an inspiring treat this weekend as the former Olympic gold-medallist Olga Korbut visits the town to pass on a few tips of the trade.

Although too young to remember her captivating floor and bar routines, most of the 300 children taught at Blackpool Sports Centre are well aware of the talented former Soviet Union sports star.

And now they will get a chance to meet the three-time Olympic gold medal winner in person when she visits the centre this Saturday (December 18) at 10am to spend a day with the young gymnasts of tomorrow.

Although she officially retired from the sport in 1977, Olga continues to inspire a new set of followers, all eager to learn the secrets of her worldwide success.

Her forthcoming visit came as a welcome surprise for executive member for community services, Craig Mathews.

He said: "We're absolutely delighted that she's taking a full day out of her busy schedule to spend time with Blackpool's own promising young gymnasts.

"Even though they're too young to have been around in her amazing perfoming days, it's probably as a result of her skill and charm back then that the sport is so popular today."

Olga came to the UK for the Sports Personality of the Century programme and a BBC interview.

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