MORECAMBE MP Geraldine Smith opened a new state-of the-art training facility at Heysham power stations yesterday (Wednesday).

Heysham 1's central control room simulator was relocated from its previous home in Gloucester. The move involved hundreds of British Energy staff along with many contract companies.

A new training block was created especially for the simulator which will offer Heysham 1 and its sister station Hartlepool an on-site facility.

Clive Shaw, Heysham 1's simulator tutor, said the move was a real team effort. "We've had a great deal of support from the stations, without which we would not have achieved as much as we have".

"Having the facility closer to home certainly gives us a much greater flexibility in how and when we can do the training."

The simulator is an exact replica of Heysham 1's control room, which is the heart of the station's operations.

Its modern technology will give station staff the chance to train in a 'real' environment on a series of scenarios and allow tutors closer contact with those on courses, ensuring even higher quality training. After six months, from dismantling in Gloucester to being fully operational, the simulator is ready for its first training intake.