THE SISTER of a popular former councillor - who died aged just 30 - has praised the facilities at an innovative new visitors centre named in his honour.

Sacha Leal, sister of James Leal - who represented Bridge Ward until his death in 2006 - joined other family members at the official opening of the £1.35 million building in Ray Park, Woodford Bridge on Saturday.

Ms Leal watched Redbridge mayor Thomas Chan lead the official naming ceremony at the centre, which will house an interactive exhibition on the borough's parks and wildlife and a community learning space for meetings and events.

She said: "I'm bursting with pride that this building is being named after my brother.

"My Mum, Dad and I are immensely proud of what he achieved and we are thankful to the council for having the building named after him, and the fantastic support from everyone."

The Nature Conservation Rangers' new office will also be based at the centre, together with the Ray Park Cafe.

The building has received mixed reviews from local residents - many of whom have criticised its design.

The project has also been hit by a series of delays which have held back the building's opening by nearly five months.

A number of families from the area attended the opening ceremony and took part in a series of activities including arts and crafts, face painting and story telling.

A bouncy castle was also on site throughout the day.

The Visitor Centre and Cafe will be open from 9.30am to 3.30pm from Tuesday to Friday and 9.30am to 2.30pm at weekends. Longer opening hours will be in place during the summer.