AN Olympic athlete has been appointed as a new staff member at a college in Somerset.

Bridgwater and Taunton College has announced Laura Gallagher will serve as the college's new trampolining coach from the start of the 2024/25 academic year.

Laura’s career includes representing Great Britain at the highest levels of trampolining, during which she has amassed eight World and European Championship medals, including four gold, two silver, and two bronze.

Her journey began locally in Bridgwater, where she attended Wembdon St Georges and Haygrove School, and later Strode College to facilitate her training commitments.

Laura’s passion for trampolining started at age six under the guidance of Helen Wheller, who she will replace as BTC's trampolining coach.

“It’s an honour to take on Helen’s role as college trampoline coach, especially after I started my trampoline journey with her all those years ago," Laura said.

“I have lots of lovely memories from that time, and I hope I am able to afford BTC students the same happy memories and opportunities as I had.

"I hope I can continue Helen’s legacy.”

Helen, who is stepping down, has been working in developing Team BTC’s trampolining provision for more than 30 years.

“Whilst I am sad to be retiring from Team BTC after 37 successful years, I am delighted to be handing over the role of Team BTC Trampolining Coach to Laura,” Helen said.

“I had the privilege to coach Laura on her Olympic journey as a 5-year-old when she was part of a team at St George’s Primary School in Wembdon.

“Early on, she showed potential to excel in this sport, which led her to compete at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Laura can use this wealth of experience to pass onto the new Team BTC squad starting in September.”