Redgrave to attend Arena launch

Star quality: steve Redgrave is coming to town to help launch the new Middleton Arena

Sporting hero Sir Steve Redgrave CBE will be one of the star guests at the special launch of the Middleton Arena next month.

A wide range of activities and presentations are being lined up for Saturday 25 April, which kicks off at 11.00 am, including guided tours of the facilities.

Visitors will be able to get a taste of the many activities available at the arena including fitness centre, pools and sports facilities. Demonstrations on show will include body combat, keep fit, powerplate and salsa.

There’ll be a windsurfer simulator and an indoor rowing competition. For the less energetic they’ll be a chance to play a round of crazy golf and see a theatre workshop in the auditorium. Organisers promise they’ll be something for all ages, and fun activities for youngsters including face painting, circus skills, the SHOKK gym and Mad Science.

The five times Olympic gold medallist rower is visiting to mark the launch of the £15 million sports and entertainment centre. After striking gold in Sydney 2000 he became our only ever athlete to have won gold medals at five consecutive Olympic games.

He has also won three Commonwealth Games gold medals and nine World Rowing Championships gold medals.

Sir Steve, whos achievements have been recognised as being amongst the greatest ever sporting moments will be chatting to visitors and signing autographs.

During the afternoon visitors will get the chance to hear from the man himself when Sir Steve he takes to the stage in the new state of the art auditorium.

Also on the line up is Silver Olympic Medallist Keri-Anne Payne. The 21 year old swimming sensation represented Great Britain in last years Olympics. Other guests and activities are expected to be added to the programme in the next couple of weeks.

The launch event runs from 11.00 am – 3.00 pm, admission is free and everyone is welcome.

The public launch will kick off a week of special events at the arena, culminating with a live performance by top comedian Dave Spikey on Sunday 3 May.