Donna then went on to test out the new facilities by playing some rallies with some budding Badminton players from the local schools. “This is a fantastic place for young people to come and try sport, particularly Badminton. I’m especially pleased as it’s within my home county” said Donna. She went on to say “Maybe a new Badminton star will be discovered here, I really hope so”.

Councillor John Lemmon, Chairman of Etwall Leisure Centre Joint Management Committee and Barrie Whyman, Vice Chairman of the Committee and Chairman of John Port School governors welcomed guests to the event.

John Lemmon commented, “The long-awaited leisure centre will provide a first-class facility for the people of South Derbyshire.  As well as our new gala standard swimming pool, South Derbyshire people will be able to enjoy a six-court sports hall, health and fitness centre, café and badminton facility with Olympic potential.”

“Donna was the obvious choice to open the centre” says Barrie Whyman, “It is a great honour to have Donna Kellogg at our special ceremony. She is a local person, born in Derby. She is an inspiration especially to the pupils of John Port School and local primary schools”.

BADMINTON England made a contribution of £400,000 towards the £7 million pound project through the Community Club Development Programme. This investment has allowed us to influence the specifications of the new 6 court hall and they are of our highest standards.

Through a deal struck with the centre BADMINTON England will have sole access to the facility for one night a week for the next 21 years at a reduced rate, close to half price.  James Watmough, Regional Manager for BADMINTON England in the East Midlands says “This is a fantastic opportunity for Badminton in the local area.  Our profile will be massively increased in South Derbyshire and this new facility will be host to high quality Badminton development”.

The new Etwall Leisure Centre will be open to the public in August. If you are interested in getting involved in Badminton at the centre then please contact Edward Reeves on 07715369565 or edwardreeves@badmintonengland.co.uk.  For general centre enquiries please call the reception on: 01283 733348.