AN AYR schoolgirl is proving an inspiration to others after overcoming her disability to become a gymnastic star-in-the-making.

Nine-year-old Evie MacLeod, who was born without her full left hand, has been given an Achievement Award for her efforts in gymnastics.

The plucky youngster is proving that anything is possible, regardless of personal hurdles and has been hailed by her gymnastics club as a “shining star”.

Evie has been attending gymnastics through the South Ayrshire Sports Development programme since she was five-years-old.

She started gymnastics in a beginner’s class at Mossblown Activity Centre and despite finding it intimidating at first, her winning personality and fun attitude made her a firm favourite in the team.

Evie, who also attends swimming and karate, worked hard and managed to overcome any difficulties and with the help of her coaches she has managed to achieve a number of key gymnastics skills including cartwheels and handstands.

Evie says she already has her sights set on her next big goal. She said: “My mum and dad have been really great and they’ve helped me to do everything I want to with my gymnastics. I’ve been improving a lot in the last few months and hope to be able to take part in competitions in the future so I’ll just need to keep training.”

Councillor Brian McGinley, South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy and Culture said that Evie was an inspiration, adding: “To succeed in sport you have to have the drive to push yourself to your limit and it’s clear that Evie’s a girl that won’t take no for an answer. We’re proud to have supported this inspirational youngster to pursue her dreams and I wish her every success.”