BLACKPOOL's brand new state-of-the-art sports centre will see its first phase up and running on August 30.

Uforia, located at Collegiate High School on Blackpool Old Road, will play host to games of short hockey, kwik cricket and five-a-side football on eight floodlit astroturf pitches and netball, basketball and tennis on four all-weather courts.

The centre will serve the public as well as being free to use for Collegiate High School and neighbouring Highfurlong Special School.

Les Kersh, councillor for Park Ward in which the scheme is located, said the new centre would be a huge benefit to the community, adding: "It's great for the school to pull off the deal and is great news for local people to have such a facility on their doorstep." The initiative also provides a major boost to the two schools, which are strong on sporting achievement but short on facilities.

It represents a ground-breaking initiative developed with Blackpool Borough Council and Collegiate to cater for recent growth in outdoor sports.

To celebrate kick-off, Uforia will play host to Blackpool's biggest five-a-side football tournament, organised in conjunction with The Wave radio station.

Hundreds of players will battle it out from 10am until the final whistle blows at 6pm. Anyone who wishes to enter, be it a pub, club or just a group of mates, can call into The Wave on Mowbray Drive, or call (01253) 304965 for an application form and further details.

The second phase of Uforia, due to open in Summer 2000, will feature an ultra-modern sports hall comprising four badminton courts, dance studio, gymnasium and changing rooms, a bar and parking for 200 cars.

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