A GYMNASTICS club’s idea to convert the swimming pool building at Moss Farm into a centre of excellence has received backing from their governing body.

British Gymnastics confirmed on Monday they have pledged a five-figure sum to help pay for an overhaul that will cost close to £250,000 to complete.

“It’s a big milestone in our journey,” said Laura Hudson, who runs Cheshire Gymnastics with her husband Mark.

“We’ve worked every hour possible to prepare a funding bid that we really believe in.

“You then send it off hoping that the people who read it feel the same way we do.

“Most applications are rejected, but to have the support of British Gymnastics feels significant.”

She revealed they have ordered a first piece of equipment, a tumble track, for the centre in the recent weeks.

Cheshire Gymnastics, who have operated from Mid Cheshire College in Hartford since the Hudsons set it up in 2012, would lease the building from landowner Cheshire West and Chester Council if their plan becomes reality.

They say they have raised around half of the money they need.

“This announcement takes us another step closer to finalising plans for the old pool building,” said Cllr Louise Gittins, borough council cabinet member for communities and wellbeing.

“I’m delighted for the club; having support from British Gymnastics is a great endorsement and proves the strength of their bid.

“We’re happy to continue working with them on this project.”

The proposal was unveiled for the first time in March last year.

Specialists at Manchester-based AEW Architects started work on detailed drawings before Christmas following a digital survey by experts from Geoterra and Formby Surveys.

The council has spent money making the building ready to be converted.

However it has consistently said it has no spare cash to allocate in capital budgets – at this stage – to pay for the overhaul.

Hudson said she is waiting for replies from other bodies who may be able to provide grant support.

“I’d like to think it will help our cause if we can now say our governing body is on board,” she added.

British Gymnastics has allocated £60,000 from its Facility Fund, with an additional £9,500 set aside for equipment.

That money must be spent before April next year.

“It’s becoming more real, and we’re conscious of the time limit,” said Hudson.

“We’re excited as well because we think it will be an amazing asset for Moss Farm.”

The pool building has been closed since Memorial Court opened in Northwich town centre early last year.

In November 2014, clubs currently based at the outdoor sport complex said they wanted a mixed-use facility that complements what is already there.