Howbridge Infants School improved on last year’s success as they claimed a podium finish at the Essex Key Steps Gymnastics Finals.

The Witham school’s youngsters secured their place at the county finals at Basildon Sporting Village after winning their local heats earlier this year and were up against teams from 11 other schools.

They were looking to better the fourth spot that they achieved 12 months previously as each of the team of six completed a floor routine and then two vaults.

And they met their goal as the Howbridge team finished in third place overall.

The children also had the opportunity to meet Olympic bronze medallist Max Whitlock and fellow British team gymnasts Brinn Bevan and Jay Thompson.