AN EXHIBITION match between two former international squash players, Peter Marshall, who reached number two in the world and Simon Parke who reached number three, launched the new sports facilities in Hemingford Pavilion on Sunday. Simon Parke won a very

AN EXHIBITION match between two former international squash players, Peter Marshall, who reached number two in the world and Simon Parke who reached number three, launched the new sports facilities in Hemingford Pavilion on Sunday.

Simon Parke won a very hard fought match 3-1 (11-13, 13-11, 11-4, 11-7) with shots that the manager of the club, James Powley described as "some amazing pick-ups".

A plaque was unveiled by former world champion squash player Cassie Jackman from Norfolk.

After an investment of £500,000, the improved squash club has four championship courts, two glass-backed and spectator seating for 140 people, a video training facility, a state-of-the-art gym, a therapy centre and a proshop. Three tennis courts have been re-surfaced and the bowls facilities and children's play area have been updated.

Hunts County Squash Club (HCSC), is regarded as the centre of squash excellence for the eastern region.

The development at the Pavilion at Hemingford complex is the result of an investment programme supported by Sport England and England Squash.

The club is home to The Sports Academy, which has nurtured many of the UK's leading young squash players, many of whom have gone on to compete at international level.

Chris Perks, regional director for Sport England East said: "Hunts Squash Club is a great example of a multi-sport club providing facilities for the whole community."

The new facility is run by England squash professional, James Powley, assisted by squash professional Colin Griggs and fitness trainer Mark Coulson. The sports therapy and injury repair clinic is run by James Bamford.