Primary school pupils in Bathgate were left head over heels after a special visit from Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games medallist Daniel Purvis.
The gymnast made special appearances at both St Mary’s RC Primary School and Balbardie Primary School in the town, with the trips being arranged by local housebuilder Persimmon.
Daniel told the pupils about his journey to winning medals for Scotland and Great Britain on the world stage before answering questions. He also showcased some of the skills that have seen him win a host of medals throughout his illustrious career.
Some of the pupils were then given the chance to learn more about what it takes to succeed in the sport during a special PE lesson.
The former British and European champion took home gold in the parallel bars at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and bronze in the team event for GB at the London 2012 Olympics.
He said: “I really enjoyed my visit to Bathgate and it was great to get such a warm welcome from staff and pupils at the local primary schools.
“Encouraging young people to get active and take up a sport is really important and through the partnership with Persimmon, we’re aiming to help inspire our next generation of medal-winners.”
West Lothian’s Executive Councillor for Education, Andrew McGuire, said: “It was fantastic to welcome Team GB gymnast Daniel Purvis to both St. Mary’s and Balbardie primaries in Bathgate recently.
“I’m sure the pupils found it fascinating to learn from someone who has achieved so much success, and hopefully will inspire some of our pupils to consider what they can achieve with hard work and dedication in the future.
“Many thanks to Persimmon for arranging this visit for the benefit of our pupils.”
Laura Still, Persimmon East Scotland Sales Director, added: “One of the benefits of Persimmon’s partnership with Team GB is it gives us the opportunity to arrange these visits and give local pupils a unique chance to hear from someone who has reached the very top in their sport.
“It was brilliant to see the positive impact Daniel’s visit had on local pupils and hopefully it can inspire them to achieve their own successes in the future.”
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