Beth Tweddle undergoes successful neck surgery after ski crash for TV show
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 08/02/16 12:35pm
Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle has had successful surgery on the fractured vertebrae in her neck and is recovering in hospital in Austria.
The three-time world champion, who retired from gymnastics in 2013, crashed while training in preparation for Channel 4's celebrity skiing programme The Jump, careering into a barrier on landing before being airlifted to hospital.
A statement released by Tweddle's parents on Monday morning read: "The early medical indications were positive as Beth was able to move her hands and feet, despite being in a lot of discomfort.
"Beth was taken down for surgery where they took a piece of bone from her hip and used it to fuse the two vertebrae that were fractured, along with pinning them together. It was a scary time for all of us and we're just very grateful that the operation was a success."
Tweddle, 30, said from her hospital bed: "Thank you so much for your support and concern. The last 48 hours have been very scary but all the messages have really helped to keep me positive. I will keep you updated on my progress."
Tweddle is the third celebrity to have been injured during the winter sports show in the space of two weeks.
Fellow Olympian Rebecca Adlington, 26, was forced to withdraw after dislocating her shoulder, while Holby City actress Tina Hobley, 44, pulled out after suffering a dislocated elbow and two fractures to her arm.
British gymnast Louis Smith, back in the GB team having retired after London 2012, tweeted: "Very scary to hear about Beth and her injuries. But Beth is an absolute soldier and she'll be back to normal soon I'm sure. Lots of love xx"
A tweet from British Gymnastics read: "Sending all our best wishes to Beth! We will keep everyone updated with her progress."
