GYMNAST Beth Tweddle greeted a train adorned with her name at Liverpool’s Lime Street station.

The 26-year-old former world champion met the Virgin Pendolino train as it pulled into the platform yesterday.

Emblazoned with Beth Tweddle MBE, the No 390022 arrived at the station from London.

It highlighted Virgin Trains’ scheme to sponsor travel for sports stars who are hoping to represent their country in major events.

Beth, who aims to take part in the Olympics next year, said: “It was a bit of a surprise when I was told.

“It was just a really nice honour to have that kind of thing offered to me.”

Beth applauded the travel initiative for athletes.

She added: “It is a massive support to any athlete. There is a lot of travel involved for athletes. It means one thing you do not have to worry about is travel.

“Everything helps in the preparation for an event, whether it is financial support or travelling support.

“Everyone is getting excited about the Olympics but we have still got to qualify in Tokyo. Everything is geared towards that.”

Her plans is to retire after the Olympic Games next year and study physiotherapy at Liverpool University.

She will continue to introduce youngsters into gymnastics through her business, Total Gymnastics, which she set up with Allerton-born former swimmer Stephen Parry.