NORTH Ayrshire sports stars helped officially open the Portal – Irvine’s new Leisure, Cultural and Community Centre – at a special celebration event last Friday.

Record breaking swimmers Danielle Joyce, from Stevenston, and Abby Kane, from Largs, were joined by Derek Grieve, the Scottish Government’s Head of Active Scotland Division to carry out the official duties on Friday.

They were joined on a tour of the town-centre facility by the American Consul General Susan Wilson, who was in North Ayrshire meeting with Council officers and elected members to learn more about the economic and investment opportunities in the area Provost Ian Clarkson, Councillor Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, representatives from KA Leisure and a range of other partners were also invited to the official opening.

They got a snapshot of what’s on offer at the Portal on a daily basis. During the tour, the party got to see a summer kids club and Fit Ayrshire Baby Club.

These activities took place in the huge games hall, which also caters for a variety of sports including basketball, netball and table tennis.

Danielle, the current holder of multiple deaf world records in swimming and Abby, who at just 13 received a silver medal at last year’s Paralympics, were both right at home during the tour of the swimming pool.

The official opening took place just days before demolition began on Irvine’s old leisure centre, The Magnum.

Councillor Joe Cullinane said: “The tour reflected that the facility is all about our community and catering for as many groups as possible.

“There is no doubt that the Portal has already been a huge success since it opened and we are confident that it will continue to grow in popularity for years to come.”