Steve Cram says the centre is a "significant" facility

Sunderland's �1m sea front Adventure Centre opened its doors on Tuesday with the help of a Sport England grant of �719,074.

The North East's famous middle distance athlete, Steve Cram, joined pupils from Southwick Primary School in Sunderland to officially open the new centre.

It will complement the Marine Activity Centre (Mac) at Roker, which is already one of the city's flagship developments.

Adventure Sunderland consists of a two-storey building with plenty of climbing and sports facilities.

The ground floor provides a reception, changing facilities, drying room, and a climbing wall.

The upper level provides two classrooms, an office and the upper level of the climbing wall - it also provides training and specialist equipment, which would otherwise be difficult to obtain.

'Sporting opportunities'

The project is helping to increase opportunities for young people from the surrounding areas.

It should make a big impact on the recreational, leisure and educational needs of the local community. The indoor climbing wall provides an alternative activity during poor weather conditions.

Steve Cram said: "I am honoured to preside over the launch of one of the most significant sporting facilities opened in Sunderland this year."

Judith Rasmussen, regional director of Sport England, said: "It is a pleasure to see a local charity receive money when they have shown such a commitment to encouraging young people and providing sporting opportunities in the community."