A gold-medal winning Olympian officially open a new all-weather hockey pitch in Mile End park which can be used by all the community.

East London Advertiser: Opening of new hockey pitches at Mile End Park Stadium by Helen Richardson-Walsh and mayor John Biggs. Picture credit: Kois Miah.Opening of new hockey pitches at Mile End Park Stadium by Helen Richardson-Walsh and mayor John Biggs. Picture credit: Kois Miah. (Image: Kois Miah)

Hockey player Helen Richardson-Walsh joined 120 pupils from schools in the borough who took part in a coaching session.

Describing the pitch as ‘a terrific facility’, she added: “It has been a fantastic day meeting all the school children and seeing them all enjoying playing hockey despite it being freezing cold.

“After speaking to the coaches here they have said how the hockey is continuingly growing ever since London 2012 as people have been inspired by the national team to get involved.

“It was part of our team’s vision to inspire a generation and it is great to see it in action.”

The new pitch, part funded by The London Marathon Charitable Trust, was built during last summer and replaces the old astro pitch that was nearing the end of its usable life.

Cllr Abdul Mukit, culture member for culture and youth, said: “I’m delighted that Tower Hamlets has this new facility that can be used by local clubs, schools and community groups so that they can take part in a wide variety of sport and physical activity programmes.”