SUNDERLAND footballing legend Niall Quinn will officially re-open a school after its £7.6m refurbishment.

Quinn, who has played for, managed and been chairman of, the Black Cats, will do the honours at Wellfield Community School in Wingate, County Durham, on Monday morning (November 24)

He will meet head Linda Rodham, pupils, staff and governors and see lessons and an exhibition by pupils who get weekly coaching from the Martin Gray Football Academy based at Darlington College.

Ms Rodham said: “We use the academy to raise sporting and educational aspirations.

“The students get to play football, meet the players, watch big games and receive professional coaching but, in return, they have to do their homework and behave positively. “

Wellfield has a strong link with a project close to Niall Quinn’s heart.

The Sunderland AFC Foundation, of which he remains a patron, also visits the school to provide weekly lessons.

The school is entering a national competition with the Foundation as part of the Enterprise Academy at Sunderland.

Ms Rodham said: “A lot has been achieved in a short period of time.

“The main driving force for us is no one should have to travel miles to attend a good school, the community deserve an outstanding educational environment on their doorstep with excellent opportunities for students.”