The Jump: Beth Tweddle ‘manages to take first few steps’ while being helped by nursing team after neck injury

Tweddle underwent surgery on her neck in Austria

A promotional shot of Beth Tweddle (CHANNEL 4)

The former Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle has taken her first steps with the support of a nursing team after undergoing surgery on her neck.

Tweddle is recovering in an Austrian hospital following surgery to fuse fractured vertebrae in her neck. The 30-year-old crashed into a barrier during training for Channel 4's Winter Olympics inspired programme, The Jump.

In a statement, Tweddle's parents Ann and Jerry said their daughter has managed to walk a few steps with the help of her nursing team.

"She is still very tired from the operation but the medical team are pleased with the progress she is making. At the moment we aren't certain of the timescale for her recovery. We are taking each day as it comes and will update you when there is further news.”

Tweddle won bronze at the London Olympic Games in 2012. Fellow Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington, 26, and the actress Tina Holby, 44, have also been forced to leave the contest because of injuries.

Channel 4 said it is reviewing safety procedures.