BETH Tweddle is hotly tipped to make the shortlist for the 2006 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.

And today, The Chronicle is urging readers to support the world champion Bunbury gymnast when the list is revealed on Monday.

BBC insiders say Beth is highly likely to feature in the final 10 after she became the first British gymnast ever to win gold at the World Championships in Aarhus, Denmark in October. She is currently 50-1 to walk off with the award on the night.

'I am so glad to be considered for the sports personality award,' said Beth.

'I always wanted to do well in gymnastics and win medals but I never thought I would be in the running for an award like this.

'There are so many great sports people who have been linked to it this year, Zara Phillips and Nicole Cook to name but two.'

Gymnastics, equestrianism and cycling are potentially on the list due to British failure in mainstream sports.

Beth sees this as an opportunity for her to promote gymnastics: 'It is good for the sport that competitors are recognised in the general sporting world. Simply being mentioned in connection with the award is a big deal for gymnastics.'

Since her sterling performance on the uneven bars, Beth says life has become hectic.

'I have taken part in two events since the World Championships plus I have done any number of newspaper, radio and TV interviews and a lot of people have stopped me in the street and asked for autographs.

'On top of that I have been trying to catch up with my university studies too. It has been crazy but it is what I worked for.'

Beth already has her invite to the Sports Personality awards at the NEC in Birmingham, where she won World Cup silver and bronze medals in 2004.

How to pledge support

YOU can help Beth Tweddle be triumphant on Sunday, December 10, by registering your vote.

Having charted her progress from the start of her career, The Chronicle believes she has earned the right to become Sports Personality of the Year for her drive and dedication.

And we want your help to get her there. Voting takes place on the night of the show, which is broadcast live on BBC1. We will be printing details of how you can register your support in the Midweek Chronicle which is distributed from Tuesday.

Boxer Joe Calzaghe, another name being considered for the award, said he wouldn't win 'because only losers win this award.'

Prove him wrong and show your appreciation of a sportswoman who has won something no British gymnast has ever previously achieved.