The new £8m Dorchester Sports Centre has been officially opened today by Paralympian silver medallist runner Paul Blake.

Built by The Leadbitter Group and operated by leisure trust 1610, the centre houses a 60-station fitness suite; a 25m, six-lane swimming pool; a learner pool; a dance studio and changing areas.

The pool hall, which also contains a spectator gallery, is designed to maximise views of the surrounding countryside, while the building itself is in keeping with the nearby Poundbury Estate.

It has been developed by West Dorset District Council in partnership with Dorset County Council and The Thomas Hardye School.

The Duchy of Cornwall has also contributed to funding and the project has been supported by the Dorchester Swimming Bath Trustees and Sport England.