Scope of British Gymnastics probe to emerge

UK Sport and Sport England have confirmed that details of how they intend to conduct their independent review into British Gymnastics will be announced later this month. The update came two days after

The Daily Telegraph reported that, nearly a month on from the national governing bodies announcing their co-investigation, the Government was worried that delays could be leaving gymnasts vulnerable. But the two bodies have said “significant progress has been made”.

“It is essential this review is launched correctly and, while we acknowledge a desire for progress, we are taking the necessary time to ensure this,” a statement said. news comes as a group of Olympic gymnasts hit back at Jane Allen, the British Gymnastics chief executive, accusing her of discrediting abuse survivors and demanding she step down.

Gymnastics has been engulfed by allegations of abuse at the hands of coaches and, writing in The

Telegraph yesterday, Allen said her organisation had “fallen short” in its duty of care, but defended her organisation. “Even when we fundamentally disagree with some of the things said,” she wrote, “and have recorded evidence to back it up, it would be wrong to engage in a trial through the media when only a partial view could be aired.”

The statement has angered former members of the British squad, who feel it paints those speaking out as “liars”. “Allen outright suggests gymnasts speaking to the media are liars – and that BG have proof,” London 2012 gymnast Jennifer Pinches said. “I agree that individual cases should not be discussed in the media in depth, and a balanced investigation is required, so why include this comment against those speaking out?”

Lisa Mason, the former Commonwealth champion and Olympian, said: “You can’t expect everyone to come forward when you don’t allow the people that are winning medals to speak out.”

British Gymnastics declined to respond.