WELSH sprinting sensation Jamie Baulch has officially opened Coleg Gwent's state-of-the-art Learning Centre in Pontypool.

The £2.77 million facility has been open to students and staff at the college's Pontypool Campus, in Blaendare Road, since last summer. The centre, which received funding from the Welsh European Funding Office boasts the very latest in learning technology with Smart boards (interactive white boards), 100 flat screen computers and conferencing facilities, all contained within a purpose-built open plan building overlooking stunning scenery.

Guests at the opening ceremony, which included directors of Coleg Gwent, representatives from Allied Irish Bank and Paul Murphy MP, were treated to a guided tour of the new centre by students.

Howard Burton, principle of the Pontypool campus, said the facility demonstrates Coleg Gwent's commitment to providing the best education for students in Torfaen.

"The centre reinforces the excellent teaching and learning facilities in Pontypool and Coleg Gwent. We are very pleased that it's supporting a range of different learning opportunities that allow students to access information learning technologies, from the more traditional library models to having the opportunity to video conference with students worldwide.

Former student and Olympic silver medallist Jamie Baulch said he was delighted to be invited to officially open the centre, and happily reminisced about his time at the college.

"I think the new learning centre is great - I love the modern design and think it is fantastic for students. I only wish they had it in my day."