FOOTBALL stars and an Olympic champion were joined by dozens of youngsters for the reopening of Ryeish Green Leisure Centre.

More than £4m has been invested into the facility, which was originally closed in 2010 after the centre was no longer deemed fit for purpose.

The transformation includes a 45 station gym, four-court sports hall, changing facilities and a 3G pitch.

Reading FC players Chris Gunter and Garath McCleary were joined by Olympic diving gold medallist Chris Mears for the reopening ceremony.

Councillor Norman Jorgensen, executive member for environment, leisure and libraries, said: “I am delighted this state-of-the-art leisure facility in the Western part of Wokingham Borough is going from strength to strength since it opened.

“We continue to invest in our leisure facilities across the Wokingham Borough. These new facilities at Ryeish Green are provided at no cost to the tax payer.

"This fantastic sports hub been made possible by investments from the Premier League and the FA Facilities Fund as well as developer contributions. This was part of the planning agreements for the major housing developments in the area. There has also been planned investment thanks to the new leisure contract with Places Leisure.

"All of this investment will help immensely to improve grassroots sport in the local area.”

Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) received a £245,000 grant from the Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund towards the project.

Reading FC Community Trust will use the site to deliver various community schemes and council staff worked alongside the Football Foundation to carry out the project.

Paul Thorogood, chief executive of the Football Foundation, added: “Grassroots sport plays an important role in communities across the UK, creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds.

"That is why I am delighted that WBC has now opened their state-of-the-art leisure centre, thanks to investment from the Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund.

“Continuing to improve access to high-quality facilities like this one is a key aim for the Premier League, The FA and the government.

“Grassroots football provides so many benefits for members of the community, not least of which is the opportunity to enjoy themselves.”