Tweddle calls for openness over bullying

Beth Tweddle says “there is no place for bullying or abuse in the sport that I love” as she advised all gymnasts to talk about their experiences amid a British Gymnastics independent review.

On Tuesday Amy Tinkler became the latest elite or former elite GB gymnast to criticise the bullying and abuse culture in the sport following the statement issued by the Downie sisters, Becky and Ellie, late last week.

On Wednesday, British Gymnastics confirmed it had revoked the membership of an acrobatics coach. While Tweddle, who won bronze on the uneven bars at London 2012, did not mention any allegations relating to her career in gymnastics, she has been dismayed to learn of others’ experiences.

She said in a post on Instagram: “Gymnastics is my life, and it’s been a difficult week or so for everyone in gymnastics reading and watching the stories in the news. You should never be afraid to talk and it hurts me to learn that gymnasts have not felt like they can do this.

“I welcome the independent review and I urge all gymnasts to talk, to contribute and share their experiences both positive and negative.”

British Gymnastics said that Neil Griffiths, an acrobatics coach, had been expelled as a member of the organisation.

It is understood the decision follows allegations of bullying made against him in 2015.

Gymnasts from all ages and levels of the sport have gone public to reveal instances of bullying and abuse which have prompted British Gymnastics to launch an independent review.

In a statement released via their social media channels, the Downies described instances of historic bullying, including a focus on weight which Ellie Downie said had “left deep scars which will never be healed”.

Beth Tweddle