local MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire, Jesse Norman, visited Ross Sports Centre to perform the official opening of the newly-refurbished facilities at Ross Sports Centre on Wilton Road on Friday, September 7th.

The stunning new upgrade was possible following a successful bid to Sport England's Inspired Facilities Fund which aims to help local community groups refurbish their clubs and transform them into modern grassroots sport facilities. Inspired Facilities is funded through the National Lottery and is key part of Places, People, Play - Sport England's programme to deliver a London 2012 legacy of increased participation in sport.

The Ross Sports Centre Community Interest Company took over the operation of the facility in September 2011. Refurbishing the tired, worn out showers and existing four changing rooms was a top priority. Essential repairs to the security shutters and a new hot water tank were also carried out.

Therese Warwick, Chairman, said the grant has had a massive and hugely positive impact on the facility. "The changing rooms are now bright with modern furniture and the shower area is reconfigured and everything is totally new. It's clean, modern, fit for purpose and looks stunning. Our stakeholder clubs are so proud of their new facilities. Gone is the embarrassment of the past, now it's a pleasure to host visiting teams at Ross Sports Centre."

Jesse Norman paid tribute to the Trustees and wished the project every success in the future. The stakeholder clubs (Ross Cricket Club, Ross Juniors FC and Ross United FC) through the umbrella organisation of Ross Sports Centre CIC have a vested and ongoing interest in the site. The Trustees are working hard to ensure the smooth operation of the facilities and planning for its long-term development into a high quality multi-sports hub to serve the people of Ross.

Therese added that: "working with volunteers in grassroots sports clubs is a privilege. So many local people are volunteering in sport. Every week they give up their free time to provide the young people of Ross with a wide range of sporting opportunities. The Trustees are delighted with the renewed interest in the Sports Centre as a hub for community sport in Ross. This fantastic award from Sport England is the first step in a new era for Ross Sports Centre."

For more information about booking pitches or hiring the facility please visit the website: http://www.sport4ross.com">www.sport4ross.com or call 07866 702205.