A STATE-of-the-art sports centre was opened in Blackburn last night -- and received the seal of approval from Rovers stars past and present.

The JJB Soccerdome, in Haslingden Road, Guide, near junction five of the M65, was given the thumbs-up by players Brad Friedel, Paul Gallagher and Jon Stead, as well as legends Bryan Douglas and Ronnie Clayton.

JJB founder and former Rovers defender Dave Whelan also attended -- and revealed that the use of the 11 football pitches would be free to schools during the day.

Local children, including 50 winners of an Evening Telegraph competition, were invited into the Soccerdome last night to be the first to play on the pitches.

They were given coaching by Blackburn Rovers community coaches -- and tips from the players.

Afterwards, the players, JJB bosses, civic dignitaries and Mr Whelan looked on as Mr Douglas and Mr Clayton unveiled the opening plaque.

Mr Whelan said he was delighted that his two former team-mates from the 1960s had performed the ceremony.

He added: "We have always remained friends. I just thought it was fitting that they should open it. They have 86 England caps between them. The facilities are everything I thought they would be. It is a great spot near the motorway and it will serve all the towns of East Lancashire."

Rovers keeper Friedel said: "The facilities are tremendous."

The Soccerdome, the fourth in the country, also includes a fitness centre, including a gym and swimming pool, which opens later this month.