UK Sport launches probe into gymnasts' claims of abuse by coaches

LONDON - UK Sport, the British government agency investing in Olympic and Paralympic sport, has launched an urgent investigation into allegations that several British gymnasts have been physically and mentally abused by their coaches.

Catherine Lyons, a former British and European champion gymnast, and Lisa Mason, an Olympian and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, have said that they were assaulted by coaches during their careers, local media reported Tuesday.

Lyons, now 19, said she was beaten with a stick and shut in a cupboard after crying during training at the age of 10, while Mason, 38, said she was forced to train until her hands ripped bled when she was 10.

"These allegations are shocking and upsetting. There is absolutely no place for any sort of bullying or abuse in sport and anyone responsible for such behavior must be held accountable, with support offered to those affected," a UK Sport spokesperson said on Tuesday in a statement.

The agency also called on athletes to come forward with information.

Francesca Fox, who competed as a rhythmic gymnast at the London 2012 Olympic Games, told ITV on Tuesday night that she was weight-shamed and ended up weighing herself up to 10 times a day as a result.

British Gymnastics, the official governing body for the gymnastics sport within the country, confirmed on Tuesday night that there will also be an independent inquiry into the mistreatment of athletes.