SUNDAY'S Kent County Trampoline Championships is guaranteed a new champion after Gary Smith was forced to withdraw.

Smith, who competed in the Athens Olympics, cited a heavy schedule as his reason.

"It's unfortunate that Gary is unable to compete but we're looking forward to crowning a new champion," said Dexter Millen, chairman of the Kent Trampoline Technical Committee.

The event, which was last held two years ago, has attracted an entry of 205 compared to the previous 120.

Clubs from Folkestone, Dover, Dartford, Isle of Sheppey, Faversham, Beckenham, Ashford, Aylesford and Maidstone will be represented plus two competitors from Australia.

"What were trying to do is increase awareness in the sport," said Mr Millen. "Trampolining gets little or no exposure in the media so we're hoping to get plenty through the door so we can show people what the sport is all about.

"We're expecting a high level of competition."

The event is being staged at the Jumpers Rebound Centre, Mill Road, Gillingham and starts at 9am and is scheduled to finish at 1pm.