Recreation centre saved from 'brink of extinction'

Somerset Council said in January it could no longer afford to pay for the recreation centre

A community sports facility has been given an energy efficient makeover after it was brought back from "the brink of extinction".

Yeovil Recreation Centre in Somerset was at risk of closure, before Yeovil Town Council approved budget proposals - including a large tax rise - to help save it.

The arena has now been "future proofed", with the latest in technology and servicing by British Gas, in a bid to reduce running costs.

The "Olympic Overhaul" took place with the help of TeamGB ambassador and TV star Mark Wright who said: "It’s great to see this sporting facility be given a much-needed refresh."

Somerset Council declared a financial emergency in October last year, that saw the recreation centre put at risk.

A petition to save the centre was launched within the community, drawing in more than 15,000 signatures, as well as support from current and former Olympians.

Following the campaign, the town council agreed to step in and will take over the venue from next month.

Geoff Cole said the club "is vital to our community"

Ahead of the takeover, and as part of British Gas’s effort to ‘Power The Home Fans’ in the run-up to the Paris Olympics, the ground has now seen energy-efficient technology installed at the site, including solar panels, insulation and external cladding.

Geoff Cole, chair of the club, said: "Six months ago we were on the brink of extinction.

"The timely intervention from British Gas, and the incredible support from James Guy and Greg Rutherford, Aled Davies, and Mark Wright has been lifesaving."

He added: "We are a busy club, we hold open meetings, we have school events, it's used by local colleges, league matches are hosted here - both the athletics track and the hockey club have masses of users."

The updates are expected to save up to 10 tonnes of carbon annually.

Speaking at the Yeovil Olympiads Athletic Club, Mark Wright, praised the initiative saying that it was fantastic to see the sports facility having "a much needed refresh".

He added: "These places are so important for not only physical health but also mental health as well."