Jason Gardener MBE, the Olympic Gold Medallist (2004) was welcomed by Prior Park Collegeon Friday afternoon, as the Bury Sports Centre was officially opened before a large group of students, staff, parents and friends.
The Headmaster thanked all those many people who had contributed to make the Sports Centre a reality including the Governors, staff, parents and donors.
Governor and major donor Mr Tony Bury came in for special mention for his generosity, with the Sports Centre bearing his name as a result.
Both the Headmaster and Jason spoke of the central role that sport had played in their lives, their passion for it and the benefits they gained from it.
Lord Sebastian Coe, who had intended to join the celebration, sent his apologies and best wishes, and will visit the College at a later date.
The multi-million pound complex includes a gymnasium the size of four badminton courts, a dedicated fitness centre with thirty state-of-the-art stations, a large classroom with direct viewing into the Sports Centre, four changing rooms, a medical room, an office and function space leading onto a large viewing gallery overlooking the cricket pitches and the all-weather pitches.
