Hollywood style

Nuttall and Pattinson, both from the Preston area, left their footprints at the start of the 'Stepping Stones to Sport' pathway at a penultimate ceremony in the University of Central Lancashire's outdoor multisport complex at Cottam.

Bosses behind the development - which is due to open next term - hope other local athletes who achieve success will also leave their footprint on the path.

Pattinson, a former Preston College student, competes with Preston Harriers and has represented Britain at international level several times. She is currently ranked fourth in Britain over 1500m.

Nuttall, a former Tulketh High School pupil, is also a member of Preston Harriers and has achieved success representing Britain on several occasions.

Speaking at the launch, he said: "I have fond memories of training in all weathers at the track down on London Road, but it wasn't an all-weather track!"

He remarked on how important it is for young people to train with a good group on a good track, and he welcomed the arena which should attract other big sporting names to the town.

They were joined at the ceremony by the Regional Director of Sport England Sheldon Phillips, who spoke about the involvement of Sport England and the significance of lottery awards for sport in the UK.

The complex, officially named Preston Sports Arena by the university's vice-chancellor Malcolm McVicar at Monday's ceremony, still requires a lot of work but the club house, reception, maintenance buildings and car parks are complete.

It has cost £12 million, and received one of the largest awards from the Sport England Lottery Fund of £7.9 million. Preston Borough Council contributed £400,000 to the scheme.

In the long-term, it is hoped to be linked by a rail network.

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