OLDBURY gymnast Josh Hunter is in need of the public’s support so he can travel to Portugal for the prestigious Loulé World Cup.

Due to limitations in funding, the 20-year-old has to pay for the trip himself, but he is hoping kind-hearted donors will help him reach his £750 target.

Josh, who currently ranks second in Great Britain in his age category, needs to pay for accommodation, competition fees, training costs and living expenses while at the event – which takes place between September 29 and 30, so has launched a justgiving page in a bid for financial support.

A former British Champion, Josh is at the top of his sport and has been a member of the Great Britain squad since 2013, competing for GB on three occasions.

Aiming to leave the competition with a medal, Josh said: “I'm expecting to place high in Loulé World Cup, I should be looking to be in the top three.

“This competition is such a good stepping stone for the world championships, after tearing my Achilles last year I never thought I'd get back to being top in our country and I'm only looking to improve on this.”

Josh has been tumbling for the past 14 years and the training involved in his highly physical and demanding sport has not been without its dangers for the young athlete.

“I suffered a massive injury which put me out for a year and was told it would be hard to get back to where I was – which was British champion,” Josh said. “But so far this year I’ve placed top four and then went on to place first at our last British trial.

“I'm currently ranked second best in Great Britain for my age group but I'm looking to improve on this at the British finals on the September 23 and 24.”

The former Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy pupil now trains full time while also coaching children who are developing to be tumblers.

To support Josh’s appeal, donate at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/josh-hunter

He added: “There is nothing I enjoy more than performing in the sport I love and I feel privileged to be granted this opportunity.

“I would therefore greatly appreciate any donations towards the cost of this event and achieving my goals at international competition.”