The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has supported Ellan Vannin Gymnastics Club as it recovers from severe damage caused by December’s devastating floods.

The Club’s headquarters, situated adjacent to the National Sports Centre in Douglas, lost all but a few pieces of equipment in the flooding on 3rd December.

Thankfully, most of the equipment was covered by insurance and the replacement equipment sourced from a French supplier, with the Steam Packet Company stepping in to help ship it to the Island.

Head Coach Helen Duggan explained: ‘We were able to save a few pieces of equipment, but everything else was lost. It has been a difficult process trying to get the gym hall and building cleaned after the flood. However, with the help of parents and volunteers, we have worked through the mud and grime to organise and clean the gym ready for the refit. In six weeks we managed to clean, paint and lay new carpet tiles in the gym hall.

‘The club was fully insured and the majority of the equipment will be replaced through the insurance. However, we are still fundraising to cover the costs of the items that were not covered by insurance. We prepared a “wish list” for the gym and we will continue to raise funds in order to acquire these items.

‘The gym equipment has been supplied by a Gymnova, a specialist gymnastic supplier, which manufactures most of its equipment in France and supplies worldwide. We would like to offer our sincere thanks to the Steam Packet Company for its kind assistance in arranging the shipment of the equipment, and to the team at Island Express for its help in arranging delivery.’

It is expected that the gym will be fully operational by the end of February, and a formal opening night is being organised.

Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘December’s floods impacted on so many people and the damage caused to this area of Douglas, including the NSC, was severe. The team at Ellan Vannin Gymnastics has worked wonders to organise the cleaning and refitting of the gym so quickly, and we were only too glad to offer our support in helping get the gym reopened and the talented young gymnasts back doing what they do best.’

Photo- Ellan Vannin Gymnastics Club new equipment.