TWO top Gwent athletes changed their running shoes for tennis racquets to mark the completion of another part of Newport's International Sports Village.

Olympic gold medallist Darren Campbell, who received an MBE in the New Year Honours List, and sprinter Christian Malcolm took part in a special tennis match to relaunch Newport Tennis Centre.

They played the fun match with two professional tennis players Chris Lewis and Matt Lowe when the centre re-opened on Saturday with a new performance surface which will help tennis players avoid injuries as well as bring more tournaments to the city.

It is part of the Newport International Sports Village which is home to the Wales International Velodrome. A multi-million pound swimming pool is set to open in January, 2006.

Christian said: "I think it is amazing and people don't seem to realise the high quality of facilities we have here - the Velodrome, the swimming pool being built, the tennis centre, squash courts and cricket and football pitches.

"It is important people realise we have got these facilities on our doorstep."

He added: "It is a great facility and if the Lawn Tennis Association starts holding tournaments here it will be great for Newport."

Darren, of Rogerstone, is this year looking forward to relaxing and spending time with his family after a year of amazing achievements.

He said: "There is not really much I can do to top the achievements of last year. I achieved what I wanted with the Olympic gold medal and this year I feel I can relax a little bit and have some fun.