Swimming star Rebecca Adlington on hand to officially open leisure centre - WATCH AND PICTURES
British Olympic legend Rebecca Adlington OBE officially opened a new multi-million-pound leisure centre in the Midlands.
The two time Olympic gold medallist cut the ribbon and unveiled a commemorative plaque at Wyre Forest Leisure Centre.
She delighted crowds by posing for photographs with adoring fans and meeting swimming instructors and students.
The new centre in Kidderminster cost £11.9 million to build and first opened its doors in July before the official opening took place.
Rebecca was full of praise for the new leisure centre which she said would help grassroots to grow in the area.
She said: "The leisure centre is absolutely amazing.
"Even just driving up here, it is very visually appealing and a very impressive place which is welcoming to everyone.
"There is a great mix of people and gym goers here which is so nice to see.
"The new leisure centre will definitely help grassroots sports in the area."
The leisure centre, located in Silverwoods Way, features a sports hall, a six-lane 25m swimming pool, learner pool with moveable floor, fitness suite, dance studios, climbing wall and small-sided outdoor pitches.
Councillor Rose Bishop also performed the official opening with Rebecca, with the ribbon-cutting taking place at noon.
Among the crowds were members of Midlands taekwondo club Verve Taekwondo, whose students enjoyed having their photographs taken with Rebecca.
Taekwondo club leader John Swift, who is a Master 6th Degree Black Belt, said: "It was great to see Rebecca here today.
He added: "We were hoping to get here involved in some of our classes later."
Rebecca ventured out onto the poolside with a swimming coach where she spoke to swimming instructors and pupils who were busy swimming lengths in the 25m pool.
The Leisure Centre features dozens of parking spaces which are free to users of the facility.
It also has a cafe with viewing areas, a double height children's adventure play area, a health suite with sauna and steam.
Rebecca won four medals across two Olympic Games in 2008 and 2012, and was a commentator this summer.
