OLYMPIC gold medallist Max Whitlock made a special visit to his training centre, at Basildon Sporting Village, to help Active Essex promote sport with youngsters.

Since winning two gold medals in Rio for his floor and pommel performances, Max says recognition and participation for gymnastics has gone through the roof.

The 23-year-old athlete said: “The amount of people that got involved and that are passionate about it, not just watching it but really got into it, is amazing.

“The recognition has gone up for individuals, the gym and the sport. It’s just been massive and the amount of people that want to do gymnastics now has just gone crazy.

“That’s been our mission ever since London 2012 and, whilst London definitely kick-started it, Rio has done what London did ten times over which is just phenomenal.”

Max was joined by a host of Team GB athletes, including teammate Brinn Bevan, as well as youngsters from Active Essex’s Inspired athlete programme.

Through its partnership with Essex County Council and Sport England, Active Essex’s Inspired programme has supported more than 600,000 people to take part in sport and physical activity since 2013.

Max added: “Active Essex has a massive influence on getting kids involved in sport. I’ve done quite a few things with them and that is one of my missions as well as theirs and they’re doing a brilliant job all across Essex.”

The Team GB gymnasts brought home seven medals from Rio and Max bagged bronze for the all-round event on top of his golds but he hasn’t let that stall his motivation.

“A lot of athletes struggle with getting back after success at a major championship but it’s never been a problem for me because every competition just motivates me even more,” he continued.

“I may have reached the pinnacle which is unbelievable but the motivation now will be to retain titles.”

One Inspired athlete, Josh Newman, who is training for the British Trampolining Championships next year, was overwhelmed to take part in the event.

The 17-year-old from Noak Bridge, Basildon, said: “Speaking to Max, you get an idea of what he’s been through and how to deal with events like this so it’s a great experience.

“It’s an amazing feeling to know that someone from Essex has won two Olympic gold medals and it’s definitely a huge inspiration.”

The Active Essex programme will continue to support athletes across Essex and has already supported 25 athletes this year, four of whom competed in the Rio Olympics.