by Gerry Warren
gwarren@thekmgroup.co.uk

Sports facilities costing £5.1 million were unveiled in Herne Bay by GB Olympic rowing team member Dan Ritchie on Friday.

Dan, a former Herne Bay High pupil, returned to his old school to officially open a new international-size roller hockey arena complete with 400 seat viewing area.

A new four court hall and gymnastics hall has also been created at the school as well as an extension to the gym and new fitness and dance studios at the Heron Leisure Centre.

The opening of the new arena has also allowed Herne Bay Roller Hockey Club to relocate from the Pier Pavilion which is being demolished as part of the overall scheme.

The club gave a dazzling, quickfire display of their skills to guests at the official opening on Friday but the area will also be used for indoor football, basketball and bowls.

Dan, who recently won silver in the eight man boat at the World championships, said he was proud to return to the school and described the facilities as 'incredible’.

He said he hoped they would inspire a new generation of young sportsmen and women from the school.

But an important element of the scheme is that the facilities will also be available for community use.

City council executive member for Herne Bay regeneration, Cllr Peter Lee added: “The completion of the work here and at Heron marks a new era in sports facilities in the town.
“Providing them has been one of the council’s priorities for a long time and it’s a great day for Herne Bay.

The facilities will be operated by Active Life, whose marketing manager Nigel Collins said: “The interest and response from people has been fantastic.
“While you won’t need to be a member to use them, regular users will save money by joining so we have created a limited number of special opening offers to tempt people in.”

See this week's Gazette for full story and pictures.