GREAT Britain hockey star Lily Owsley has officially opened Malvern College's new £800,000 floodlit water-based sports pitch.

Owsley won gold with GB women's team at the Rio Olympics last summer.

The new international standard hockey pitch is part of the college’s ongoing multi-million pound investment in academic, creative and sporting excellence.

It will also benefit the local school community, and club and district hockey teams

The potential of individual hockey players at Malvern is being nurtured by coaching from full-time staff.

Owsley said: “I am delighted Malvern College girls and boys along with other local clubs, will benefit from this outstanding international standard pitch.

"They will continue to discover the benefits of being part of a team while learning new skills and gaining valuable life experiences.”

The new investment means there are now two artificial hockey pitches at Malvern College.

Chey West, director of sport at Malvern College, said: "Sport plays a huge role in the life of Malvern College girls and boys and helps them to become balanced and well-rounded pupils.

"Hockey is taken very seriously by the girls and boys who play it because it combines physical and mental determination, self-confidence, team work, and the ability to think and act on your feet."

Owsley and Laura Malcolm, a netball player from Worcester-based Severn Stars, were guest speakers at a sports dinner later in evening.