Holbeach and Fenland Gymnastics Club has received £500 for a floor mat.

Club chairman Annette Facey said the group offers a great facility for youngsters in the area.

She said: "We keep children off the street and being a member of a group expands their knowledge of team building.

"It is a really worthwhile hobby."

The money will buy a special floor mat to protect young gymnasts as they perform routines.

The club, which was established in 1983, moved from a barn in Washway Road, Holbeach, to the gym at the Peele Community College, Long Sutton, 18 months ago and now enjoys much improved facilities.

Membership has since doubled to 184 children aged between four and 17 and the club is applying for a Lottery grant to raise £16,000 for a sprung floor. It has already raised money to buy much-needed equipment such as a £6,950 tumble track.

An open day is planned for the end of April to raise more funds.

The Lincolnshire Free Press is offering more than £7,500 to help young people in 2008.

The fund is open to anyone under the age of 18 who lives within our coverage area.

To make a bid for cash from the fund write to the Children's Appeal Trustees, c/o Lincolnshire Free Press and Spalding Guardian, Priory House, The Crescent, Spalding, PE11 1AB.