ON November 9 the official opening was held of the new multi use gaming area at Ashperton Primary Academy.

This was generously supported by the Clive and Sylvia Richards charity, Tesco and the Ashperton Primary Academy Friends' Association.

The multi use gaming surface was completed in October and has already had a very significant and positive impact.

Not only does this facility provide the school with new opportunities for sports and PE and play, but it has also made the school community safer. Because the children play on the MUGA before school starts, the playground is free for parking in the morning. This has made morning drop off safer and pick up time safer, by significantly reducing traffic tailbacks on the main road.

Already, it is used intensively for playtime, PE, after school clubs, cluster tournaments and school matches. The school has also attracted a wonderful hockey coach to run a club on Friday after school due to the quality of the surface.

Headteacher Chris Bandfield said "I am delighted that our pupils have access to this amazing facility. It has improved so many aspects of their school day including playtimes, PE lessons and sport provision. Young people in rural areas often find it very difficult to access sports facilities of this quality".

At the event were Clive and Sylvia Richards, representatives from the Ashperton Primary Academy Friends Association, the Parish Council, the Governors of Ashperton, Dawn Davies from Tesco, the Headteacher Chris Bandfield and Ecologist Nigel Hand and of course, children from the school. Sylvia Richards was also on hand to cut the ribbon to officiate the opening.