ONE of the most impressive sports centres in the North-East will be opened in Newcastle's West End this week.

The £6.2m Centre of Sport, at West Gate Community College, has been funded by Sport England North East, Newcastle's Local Education Authority and as part of a regeneration project, Reviving the Heart of West End.

The design features a tower that can be seen for miles and a green and purple indoor decor.

The building was the brainchild of Newcastle City Council's architect, David Baker, and it has taken about a year to construct.

During the day, schoolchildren from West Gate Community College will make use of the centre for their physical education classes, alongside some classes for members of the community.

In the evening, it will be used by residents and clubs.