PROVING the value of an 'all-weather pitch' a downpour of rain didn't stop the opening of a new facility at saltash.net community school.

The floodlit sports pitch was officially opened by athletes and Olympic 2012 hopefuls, diver Tonia Couch and British judo champion Lewis Keeble – making it a proud day for Lewis' brother George Keeble, a pupil in Year 10.

The athletes had been asked for their help by PE teacher Ali Hancock.

A group of PE students and sports leaders, along with staff, governors and parents, attended the official opening when the athletes cut a ribbon.

They also unveiled a plaque created by the school's design and technology department. To mark the occasion balloons were released in the school's colours of gold and blue.

The all-weather pitch was created from funds allocated from central Government, following saltash.net's conversion to academy status in April.

It took 12 weeks to complete the 101m x 63m sand-filled pitch, which can be booked in thirds to accommodate three five-a-side football matches, or as a whole for football or hockey.

It can also be used for a variety of other sports and training.

Benefits

Head of PE Rob Hawkins said: 'This facility has been long awaited at saltash.net. It will bring many benefits, not just to students at our school, but to the community of Saltash as well.'

Headteacher Isobel Bryce added: 'It has been very exciting watching the development of the new facility over the past term.'

To see how the pitch was built go to http://www.saltash.net">www.saltash.net for film coverage produced by the school's ICT department.