BBC gymnastics commentator Craig Heap believes Basildon’s Max Whitlock has the talent to become Britian’s biggest ever star in the sport.

Heap, who represented England more than 100 times in his own career, will be attending Sunday’s BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards night to show support for Whitlock.

And he believes the 21-year-old will leave a lasting legacy in gymnastics.

“For me Max has definitely got the potential to become Britain’s best ever male gymnast,” said Heap.

“Finishing second in all around final at the World Championships this year equalled our best ever finish from Dan Keatings.

“But Max has already won two medals at the Olympics and is now just one behind Louis Smith in that total.

“He has the talent to win even more at Rio 2016 and I’m sure he will be challenging on the pommel, in the all around and in the team event too.”

Heap, who was also a judge on the BBC show Tumble, has commentated on several of Whitlock’s impressive achievements.

And he feels Whitlock’s build will enable him to stay in the sport for quite some time.

“Max has got the perfect physique because he’s got a light frame, he’s not bulky and he could have a longer career because of that as it lowers the chances of injury,” said Heap.

“He first burst on to the scene at the 2012 Olympics in London and he’s been fantastic ever since.

“But this year has been particularly impressive because he’s been able to peak at three major championships and that’s brilliant for any sportsman to have achieved.”

Whitlock won medals at the European Championships, Commonwealth Games and World Championships to earn his place in the 10 man shortlist for the BBC award.

And Heap had been delighted by the youngster’s nomination.

“It’s fantastic for gymnastics that Max has been recognised for his achievements,” said Heap, 41.

“Being honest, gymnastics is still a minority sport and it will be hard for Max to win the award because he’s up against Lewis Hamilton from Formula 1 and Rory McIlroy from golf.

“Both of those sports have huge followings but it’s great to see Max up there with them, especially as he’s such a humble man.

“He’s a fantastic ambassador for gymnastics and, with Nile Wilson and Claudia Fragapane being nominated for the junior awards, it again shows that our sport is in fantastic shape in Great Britain at the moment.”