SUNDERLAND Football Club's controversial new training centre has been named the Academy of Light.

Fierce opposition from green belt campaigners had forced the £8m development to a public inquiry, which finally ruled in favour of the ambitious proposal. Yesterday, international environmentalist Dr David Bellamy gave his own seal of approval to the venture when he planted an oak tree to mark the launch of the academy at Whitburn Moor, near Cleadon.

Club chairman Bob Murray said yesterday: "Our players and football staff have so far trained without the facilities they deserve and I publicly apologise to them for this.''

He added: "The team has been at a disadvantage when compared to other Premier League clubs who, for this reason, have held a competitive edge over us, and this will remain the case until the academy is completed.''

Mr Murray also promised that the site would enhance the environment for the local community by creating new woodland, meadow and wetlands.

The academy will, he said, be the first "where all players from nine-years-old to senior professionals will train side by side."

Dr Bellamy applauded the venture.

He said: "After considering Sunderland's plans I think this is one of the best examples of combining the needs of the environment and sport that I have seen in 35 years.''

Dr Bellamy added: "The North-East coast has long been famous, not only for the Roker Roar, but for its natural history. Sunderland's plans are great news for both in my book. It is a home win for the local people and their environment.''