MELANIE Evans has had a dream international debut after helping Wales win the Celtic Gymnastics Cup.
The 13-year-old from Accrington was making her first ever appearance for the Welsh team and helped the senior ladies clinch gold in Northern Ireland.
Melanie (pictured), a pupil at Hollins High School, finished in fifth place overall and achieved personal best scores on the beam, vault and floor.
Proud dad Gordon said: "Melanie was very nervous and this is the biggest competition she has taken part in. But once she started she was very focused and did very well.
"We are all very proud of her."
Melanie, who is a member of the Blackpool Gymnastic Club, was part of a Welsh squad that completed the clean sweep in Lisbon after winning the girls, boys, men's and ladies title.
Gordon added: "After the competition, the team had a civic reception with the Mayor of Lisbon. It capped off a wonderful weekend. We would like to thank the school and Melanie's coach, Janet Mankowska, who have been very supportive."
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