PORTCHESTER School’s new sports hall got off to a record-breaking start at its official opening.

Year 9 students smashed the British one-hour rowing record for under-14s by seven minutes in front of 500 guests gathered to celebrate the opening of the state-of-the-art hall.

Boys at the school have been forced to share facilities with neighbouring Avonbourne School for the past 26 years so it was a proud moment for staff and pupils.

The Roy Moore Sports Hall, named after a former school governor who died earlier this year, has floor space of more than 1,200 square metres and has seven badminton courts, an 11 metre climbing wall, changing and spectator facilities, four volleyball courts and numerous other activities.

It was part-funded by Badminton England.

The event was also held in honour of Chris Bradey, who retired last week after 12 years as head teacher at the Harewood Avenue school.

He told the Echo: “It was a special night for Portchester’s pupils and staff and to showcase our wonderful new sporting facilities.”

“This hall will give the school and community an excellent facility which will benefit all ages and abilities and will inspire and improve everyone’s sporting and life chances.”