A world-class sports complex has officially opened at Peebles High.

The new facilities contain:

• An indoor four-court games hall

• General purpose hall

• Fitness suite and classroom

• Associated changing facilities.

They are complemented by a new 2G synthetic pitch, sprint track and long jump track.

Sporting stars Chris O'Hare and Jo Pettitt, who are former pupils at the school, also attended the official opening alongside staff, members of the community, Councillors and dignitaries.

Chris was a 1,500m finalist at the 2013 World Athletics Championships and will represent Scotland in this summer's Commonwealth Games.


Jo is also hoping to be at the games, representing her country at netball.

Rector, Campbell Wilson, said: "In a week when the inactivity of Scotland's young people is being highlighted in the national press it is important to send out the message that young people in Tweeddale are very active and that, now we have world class spaces for sport, we are increasing their opportunities to access sport further still.

"All S1 – S3 students will be allocated at least three slots of Physical Education per week in the new timetable. The school and the wider community will benefit for years to come."

The project was made possible thanks to a £4,300,000 investment from ourselves and an additional grant contribution of £500,000 from sportscotland.

Councillor Sandy Aitchison, Executive Member for Education, added: "It was really nice to speak to pupils at the official opening ceremony and hear about their experiences so far.

"It's hosted a range of activities and sports already and I have no doubt these world class facilities can contribute to maintaining and improving the health and wellbeing of young people in the area for years to come."