Andrew Wood

Andy was born and lived in Ipswich He excelled in Judo representing the East Region at under 18 levels 1976 Watford College 1980 Started Woodside Gymnastics Club Voluntarily 1992 Chiltern District Council Sports Developement Manager 1993 Andy became seriously ill and had 3 major operations 2000 Andy returned to Ipswich to run a brand new facility The Ipswich Gymnastic Centre The Centre is built on the edge of a deprived housing estate renowned for anti social behaviour Andy decided to invite these children into the centre on a Friday evening 'Youth Nite' now attended by 100+ kids per week The trouble and abuse started to stop and a level of report between staff and youths began to develop 2006 Phase 2 of the Ipswich Gymnastic Centre "Mega Project following a second successful bid to Sport England and donation from Bellway homes the centre was extended to a purpose built recreational gymnastics hall and an extensive community and out reach program established school visits teacher training after school clubs gymnastics festivals Andy's drive energy ambition leadership skills positive approach and if Andy says he will deliver he never goes back on his word Andy was awarded an MBE by the Queen in January 2010 for his work in the Community. He has given his life to promoting gymnastics in the local community introducing thousands of children to the sport of gymnastics, and it would be a fitting tribute for him to carry the Olympic Torch through his home town