JACOB EDWARDS described becoming a triple British champion as "unreal" after taking the Artistic Championships by storm.

The 15-year-old from Wrexham won the Under-16s British all-around, floor and pommel horse disciplines in Liverpool at the weekend.

Olympus Gymnastics Club member Edwards, who attends Darland High School, said: “It’s unreal to be a triple British champion – it hasn’t sunk in yet. I didn’t expect it all.

Last year I came 12th so I’ve really stepped up this year and I’m so proud of myself."

Edwards has his sights set on a place at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

He added: "I’ve had lots of support from my family and my gym this weekend and my aim for the future is to get to the 2022 Commonwealth Games and compete for Wales.”

The major event saw 490 participants from 91 clubs take part in the four-day gymnastics spectacular, with youngsters travelling from all across the UK to compete.

Five-time Olympic medallist Max Whitlock successfully defended his British pommel horse title, while also competing were former European champion and newly crowned British all-around champion Ellie Downie, along with four-time Commonwealth champion Claudia Fragapane, who returned from injury to take silver on floor.

A nine-time major championship medallist, 19-year-old Downie is one of the most successful female artistic gymnasts in British history.

She said: “It’s been fantastic to see so many superb young gymnasts competing this week. They’ve been able show off their skills, compete in a world-class venue and know that all of their hard work has paid off.”

Jane Allen, chief executive of British Gymnastics said: “It’s been a remarkable four days at this year’s Artistic British Championships in Liverpool.

"I’ve really enjoyed seeing so many of the established names sharing the Arena with up-and-coming stars. The talent on display has been phenomenal and I’m very excited to see what the future looks like for gymnastics in Britain.

"Liverpool has once again staged an outstanding event and I’m thrilled that the city will play host to the World Championships when it's staged in Britain in 2022.”

The Gymnastics World Cup takes place in Birmingham on Saturday and will see the best nations in the world competing for glory.