Long Field's new building has been named the Hampson Centre in honour of the former pupil who went on to play for the Leicester Tigers and England Under 21 rugby teams.

The building has cutting edge facilities from wireless internet throughout to video technology which allows for instant analysis of sports technique as well as traditional classrooms.

Matt said: "It's slightly overwhelming to have a building named after me. This building is unbelievable.

"It's tremendously important to have facilities like this because sport has progressed so much it's become more professional. I think the children deserve stuff like this.

"I know from my time here Long Field is very good at finding a niche for the pupils. For myself, I wouldn't say I was top of the class, sport was my thing and Long Field did that for me. What a great building and what a great school."

The centre was finished at the end of 2009 and was due to open in February but had to be postponed because of the snow.

Jo Smith, vice-principal, said: "Long Field is immensely proud to be able to share this moment with Matt and feel great honour that he has agreed to let us name the building after him."

Year 9 pupil Beth Franklin (13) named the building, winning a competition organised by the school council.

Beth, who is more of a football fan, said: "It's exciting getting to name the building but it's nerve wracking meeting someone who is so famous.

"The building is really, really good. It gives us more opportunity and more space for sport."

Roger Wilson, chairman of the Leicestershire County Council, cut the ribbon and said he thought the building was the finest in the county.