A TOP gymnast has died after a horror fall while trampolining in the county when a dismount went tragically wrong.

The family of Chris Fordham, 23, made the decision to turn off his life support machine after learning that he had severe irreversible brain damage.

He had also suffered other massive injuries after the fall at the Jumpers Rebound Centre in Gillingham on Saturday, February 18.

Chris, who represented Britain on the trampoline, fell awkwardly, seriously damaging his back and head.

Originally from Wales, Chris, who was one of Britain's most promising double mini-tramp gymnasts, mis-timed his dismount from the trampoline, landing on his back.

British Gymnastics chief executive Alan Sommerville said: "It would appear that this is a rare, but tragic accident.

"The Jumpers Rebound Centre in Gillingham is one of the most modern, dedicated trampoline facilities in Europe, if not the world; their safety provision is to the highest international standards.

"Christopher was preparing for a trial for the European Championships to be held in Metz, France, in May this year and was training with other national squad members.

"He was working on routines he had successfully performed safely hundreds of times, under the expert guidance of the National Squad Coach.

"Everyone in the sport will be devastated by this accident and the untimely loss of such a promising and experienced athlete.

"All our thoughts must be with Christopher's family and close friends, for whom this tragedy will never diminish, but for whom Christopher's achievements may later be a comfort, together with the knowledge that he was a great credit to his country, following the sport he loved and passionately believed in."