New Sports Complex is a Runaway Success

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The Chancellor opened the revamped Falmer Sports Complex in style when he tested out the fitness equipment for himself. Before his bout on the running machine, Lord Attenborough observed that the Fitness Room needed a machine especially for the over- 75s.

Lottery-supported body Sport England awarded the lion's share of a £1 million grant to the University's Sports Service to carry out the improvements to the Complex, and Sport England's Senior Regional Development Officer, Jack Wilkinson was also there to celebrate the opening. A Sussex alumnus, Mr Wilkinson - or 'Wilko' as he was affectionately known - was one of the first students to graduate from the University. A keen sports player when he was here, he was a member of the University soccer team and acted as an official in intra-mural competitions. At the time, he says, "The University had almost the only, as well as the best, facilities: the rest of the world had to gradually catch up."

Brian Barnett, the Sportcentre's Operations Manager, was one of Wilko's main rivals in the good old days, and once clinched a match by scoring a goal from kick-off at the half way line. Now they are playing for the same team - and together with the rest of the Sports Service staff they've achieved a more permanent sort of goal.

The new Sports facilities are open to staff and students of the University and members of the public.

Lord Attenborough, pictured left, trying out a jogging machines in the revamped Sports Complex.