LAURA Gallagher has bounced back from an injury that kept her out of the sport for a year to realise her dream of becoming British champion.

The 28-year-old from Bridgwater, who trains at Quayside Trampoline and Gymnastics, won the senior ladies title in a battle against her close rival and British team-mate Kat Driscoll at the Echo Arena in Liverpool over the weekend of September 22-23.

The former Haygrove School pupil performed three solid routines, scoring an impressive 156.165 and beating 2016 Olympian Driscoll (151.210) to the top spot.

Gallagher said: “I have had so many emotions after becoming British Champion!

“It has been a pretty long road with plenty of bumps but at last it happened. 

“It is such a relief and I feel very happy - I have so many people to thank, especially my coach Sue Bramble, who has supported throughout my whole journey and has always been there for me as a person and as an athlete.

"I have been very lucky to have her by my side through everything.”

Laura’s coach, Sue said: “I’m so pleased for Laura.

"I can’t say it’s been a smooth journey but she has shown such dedication, commitment and determination to the sport over the last 13 years that she truly deserves to be crowned British Champion."

Laura is hoping that her achievement will secure her a place on the team to represent Great Britain in the forthcoming World Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria later this year.