AN internationally successful gymnastics company has opened a branch in Cheshire after receiving a loan worth nearly a quarter of a million pounds.

Little Gym Group was founded 48 years ago in the United States of America and has since established an international franchise.

Joanne Brown-Nelson and Jody Nelson now hope to expand and open more locations across the north west, starting with Widnes.

To help them do this, the sisters have secured a £245,000 loan from NatWest to help purchase and renovate space to set up the Widnes gym, which opened last month on Earle Road.

Little Gym Groups aims to improve self-esteem and confidence in children, as well as develop their gymnastic ability and gross motor skills, and has a range of group classes for children aged four months old to 12 years old.

“The Little Gym environment is fun, but our purpose is serious,” said Joanne.

“We want to make skill-building fun for students and parents alike and are excited to be offering our services to the residents of Cheshire.

“NatWest has been a huge help in making our vision come to life. Their business advice and support, as well as financial aid, have been instrumental in launching our Cheshire location.

“We are hugely excited about our future and potential expansion, while continuing our working relationship with NatWest.”

The six-figure loan from NatWest was used to buy the premises and complete a full renovation of the previously vacant building.

The gym now employs nine members of staff at the Cheshire branch, with the hopes of creating a total of 20 job opportunities within the next five years.

“NatWest is always on the lookout to help businesses that are eager to create a difference and impact in society, so we leaped at the chance to work with the Little Gym Group,” said Sarah Johnson, relationship manager at NatWest Group.

“The success of the Little Gym Group internationally is clear and we are very excited to see this offering brought to the north west.

“We wish them the best following the initial opening and hope they continue their upward trajectory with additional sites in the future, providing a positive change to the lives of children across the north west.”