A state-of-the-art sports science lab was officially opened at Essex University today.

A new course in sports science is due to start this September, and there have been almost 300 applicants for 40 places. The lab will be used by undergraduates and postgraduates as a research and teaching tool.

It will also be open to the local sporting community for elite athlete testing and preparation.

The opening was performed by Alan Rustage, who recently retired as director of physical education at the Wivenhoe campus.

Vice-chancellor Ivor Crewe also attended, along with registrar Tony Rich, teaching staff, workers who built the lab and members of Ipswich Town and Colchester United football clubs.

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