North West Leicestershire District Council says that Coalville athlete Gemma Steel has now been added to the list of personalities who will officially open the area's new £22.5million leisure centre next month.

The complex was opened to the public last month, but a opening ceremony is planned for April 16.

Colin Jackson lined up to officially open new Coalville and Whitwick Leisure Centre.

As revealed by Coalville Nub News at the time, former Olympic hurdler Colin Jackson has been invited, along with former Leicester City players Steve Walsh and Muzzy Izzet.

But a number of people asked why Coalville-based long distance runner Gemma had not been included in the gathering.

She has represented Great Britain and has five European Championship gold medals to her name.

The 35-year-old was said to have been 'put out' that the invite was extended her way.

But councillors were told at last week's Cabinet meeting that Gemma had been approached to be part of the ceremony.

Hugglescote councillor Russell Johnson also suggested that Whitwick-based ex-Leicester City and England defender Steve Whitworth should also have been invited.

Cllr Johnson said: "This council has previously honoured Gemma for his performances on the international stage.

"Local residents had been puzzled as to why Gemma had not been invited to the star-studded line-up.

"Bear in mind she lives in Whitwick and started her career with the Hermitage Harriers in 2005.

"We have three Whitwick councillors who should've been promoting this wonderful athlete.

"Telling Gemma she could be put in touch with the relevant people was adding insult to injury.

"A lot of my residents asked if Steve Whitworth could also be invited as he was born in Coalville.

"As a collective, we should be promoting our sports people from our local back yard and have a roll of honour."

But Cllr Andrew Woodman responded: "I spoke to Everyone Active on the 14th and requested that Gemma be added to the roster.

"She's been spoke to and added to the roster.

"We've spent £22.5million on the leisure centre and we're trying to encourage people to go there and talk the district up.

"But we get quibbles about VIP lists.

"We have got a good line up for the day and I think we'll sign up a lot of new memberships."