ACCRINGTON gymnast Melanie Evans has had a slice of luck as Warburtons have given her £500 to boost her Commonwealth Games dreams.

 Employee Jackie Haken buttered up the bosses about the talents of her young cousin Melanie.

 The 14-year-old, who attends Hollins Technology College, is a cut above the rest and is tipped to represent Wales at a future Commonwealth Games.

 She has risen through the gymnastic ranks after taking the sport up aged eight.

 The money will go towards the costs of travel for training – a 65-mile round trip to Blackpool six times a week - costumes and competition fees.

“It will certainly help especially with all the travelling to Blackpool,” said dad Gordon.

 Melanie trains with Blackpool coach Janet Mankowska, who has been instrumental to her success and is now also working with the renowned gymnast coach Tracey Skirton who trains both the Welsh Gymnastics team and British Squad.

 Mum Diane said: “It is great to think that Melanie’s ambitions are being backed so widely.

“We are grateful to Warburtons for demonstrating their belief in her – it’s very encouraging for us all.”

 Melanie will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Beth Tweddle – the most successful ever female British gymnast who recently finished 11th in the World Championships.

 But she has had to struggle through a year of injuries with a broken bone in her hand, a dislodged kneecap, straining her muscles in her leg and damage to her shoulder - all in a year.

 “It is a dangerous sport but Melanie has still been training,” added her dad. “When she has injured her leg, she has been working on her arm exercises and vice versa. We hope she will be competing again in the new year.”

Warburtons General Manager Duncan Lees confirmed the commitment and said: “Dedication to an Olympic sport is a demanding business. We are delighted to be able to help out. Melanie’s healthy active lifestyle, as well as her talent, make her a super role model for others. We are keen to support individuals like her and their families and wish her every success.”