England star Alessia Russo is in line to open a new learning centre next to a cafe, it has been revealed.

Yesterday (September 14) the new Mote Park cafe was opened by the Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Gordon Newton.

The building opened to the public in April but an official ceremony was held yesterday.

It was previously thought Maidstone-born Lioness, Alessia Russo, would open it instead.

Maidstone Borough Council has explained it is in talks with the Arsenal striker’s team to open the new learning centre which is to be named after her.

A council spokesman said: “The Mote Park Café and Learning Space are two separate facilities; Maidstone Borough Council is planning for the Learning Space to be officially opened by, and named after, Alessia Russo.

“MBC is in contact with Alessia’s team to arrange a suitable time to work around her availability.”

Speaking at yesterday’s opening Cllr Gordon Newton said: “I am delighted to officially open this fabulous new building. Situated in the perfect spot in Mote Park for everyone to sit and enjoy a bite to eat whilst taking in some of the beautiful scenery.

“It has proved so popular with our residents and visitors to the park since it opened its doors to the public a few months ago. Well done to everyone involved in the project.”

He continued: “A special thank you goes to artist Jack Durling along with students from Valley Park School and everyone else involved who also contributed.

“The colours and style in the ‘Shared Memories Mural’ is so well put together it draws you in for a closer look. It really complements our magnificent 450-acre park and being so close to the café and Learning Space we know it will be enjoyed by thousands of visitors.”

The new Learning Centre and Café are the second phase of the Council’s £4.3 million investment in the redevelopment of Mote Park.

As well as a cafe and learning centre the new building comes with toilets and changing facilities for people with different degrees of physical capability and a space available all year round for hire.

New pathways and cycle routes connect the building to the car park