FORMER Middlesbrough and England star Gary Pallister has opened sport facilities that will play a major part in a drive to get people fit.

The £2.2m Acorn Centre at Acklam Grange School, Middlesbrough, has purpose-built sport and fitness facilities for both the school and the surrounding community.

It was opened by the former England, Middlesbrough and Manchester United footballer and the chairman of school governors, Councillor Hazel Pearson, yesterday.

Features include a fully-equipped sports hall, fitness studio, community rooms and offices. On evenings and at weekends, it will be open to sports clubs, community organisations and groups.

The centre has been funded by the Big Lottery Fund, West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust (WMNT), Acklam Grange School, and Middlesbrough Council.

Coun Pearson, said: "The Acorn Centre will be a one-stop shop for a wide range of activities which will improve the local quality of life, and people's health and well-being.

"Middlesbrough education authority has big plans for Acklam Grange in the next few years as part of the Building Schools for the Future programme and this marvellous facility will be an integral part of the new school and a lasting asset for the community."

Joan Ford, chairwoman of regeneration group West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust, said: "Seven out of ten children of secondary school age in west Middlesbrough go to Acklam Grange, so this new facility is a real boost for their health and education, right on their own doorstep.

"It's also tremendous news for families from the WMNT area who are being offered reduced membership to the new leisure facilities and subsided rates to use the centre - so there are no excuses not to get fit."

Emma Snowdon, North-East regional officer for the Big Lottery Fund, said: "We are delighted to be contributing to the development of new sporting facilities at Acklam Grange school.

"The Acorn Centre will play a part in giving our children, young people, and the community the chance to choose a healthier lifestyle, boost their self-esteem and confidence, and build a positive outlook and sense of achievement."