This month, as part of Rossendale’s Year of Sport, the focus turns to gymnastics, celebrating the growth, energy and achievements of Valley Gymnastics Academy and the young people at its heart.
The Sport in the Valley campaign is part of the Rossendale Physical Activity and Sport Strategy, a year-long initiative celebrating the clubs and community groups that help keep Rossendale active. Each month highlights a different sport, from grassroots to competitive level, with the aim of encouraging people of all ages to get involved in physical activity and community sport.
Founded in November 2021 at The Valley Leadership Academy, and now based at Adrenaline Centre, Valley Gymnastics Academy was established by Head Coach Hayley Martin with the support and funding of the Rossendale Leisure Trust. From the outset, Hayley’s vision was to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where children of all abilities could discover gymnastics, build confidence and enjoy being active.
Alongside leading the academy, Hayley also delivers gymnastics coaching across 29 schools in Rossendale, helping to widen access to the sport and introduce more children to physical activity at an early age. What began with just three qualified coaches, two volunteers and 78 gymnasts has grown rapidly into one of the borough’s most active youth sports programmes. As of January 2026, the academy now supports more than 450 gymnasts, led by a team of 12 qualified coaches and 10 volunteers.
The academy runs weekly sessions from Wednesday to Saturday, offering opportunities for children and young people aged from 18 months through to 16 years. Sessions focus on developing strength, coordination and new skills in a structured but friendly environment, with an emphasis on enjoyment, personal progress and confidence.
Valley Gymnastics Academy has represented Rossendale at competitions in Chorley and Cheshire and has also hosted internal events that celebrate the achievements and development of its gymnasts. The team is an active part of the local community and has taken part in events such as the Bacup and Stacksteads Carnival, showcasing the talent, teamwork and enthusiasm of its young athletes.
Hayley Martin said: “When we started Valley Gymnastics Academy, the aim was simply to create a positive, inclusive space where children could enjoy gymnastics and feel supported. To see how much the club has grown in just a few years is incredibly rewarding. It’s fantastic to watch our gymnasts build confidence, develop new skills and support one another, both in the gym and out in the community.”
Cllr Liz McInnes, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Health at Rossendale Borough Council, added: “Valley Gymnastics Academy is a brilliant example of how local clubs can make a real difference to young people’s lives. The growth of the academy shows the demand for accessible, welcoming sport in Rossendale, and the dedication of the coaches and volunteers is clear. Gymnastics plays an important role in helping children stay active, confident and healthy, and it’s great to see it taking centre stage in our Year of Sport.”
More information about Valley Gymnastics Academy can be found at https://rltrust.co.uk/valley-gymnastics-academy/