OLYMPIC bronze medalist Amy Tinkler believes switching to South Essex Gymnastics Club will develop her career.

The 17-year-old has swapped her native North-East for Basildon.

And Tinkler is certain the move will enable her to secure even more success.

“This was the best decision for me and it’s a more positive environment too,” said Tinkler.

“I appreciate everything my past club did for me, they were the ones who got me to Rio and got me the bronze medal.

“But if I was to progress from that then this was a decision I had to make and coming here was the best thing for me.

“I think it’s going to further my career.”

Tinkler won her bronze medal in Rio for a stunning floor routine and already feels at home in her new surroundings, training alongside a number of familiar faces and double Olympic champion Max Whitlock.

“I’ve got a house ten minutes from the gym and it’s all working out really well already,” said Tinkler.

“I’ve known Scott (Hann), Brinn (Bevan) and Jay Thompson for a long time now which helps and although I didn’t know Reiss (Beckford) that well before coming here, the first time I was in the gym with him we just clicked and we’re pretty close now.

“Max is obviously an incredible gymnast and he’s an inspiration to all gymnasts too.

“Working alongside all the boys pushes me on because they do tumble and vault which is really good.

“It already feels like I have been here my whole life and I’m enjoying working with Ross (Falsetta).

“It’s been going really well.”

Tinkler will now be looking to show that in competition, starting with the World Cup of Gymnastics at the O2 next month.

“I’m really looking forward to the World Cup,” said Tinkler.

“There are also Europeans and World Championships which hopefully I can make the team for.

“The Commonwealth Games are next year and that’s a big target for me because I was too young for the last one.”

Tinkler will prepare for the competitions working alongside South Essex Gymnastics Club’s senior women’s coach Ross Falsetta.

Falsetta joined the Basildon based club in January and he is relishing his involvement with Tinkler, despite his initial concerns!

“When I first heard what was happening I thought it was mildly intimidating to acquire an Olympic medalist but Amy is very down to earth and she’s a pleasure to work with,” said Falsetta.

“She’s very polite and respects everything that’s said to her so I’ve really been enjoying what we’ve been doing.

“The one thing the club was missing was an older influence to follow on the female side and I don’t think we could have picked anyone better. It’s been a pleasure so far and I’m looking forward to what the future holds.”