Legacy left by former teacher opens sports court in Willesden college

A new sports facility has opened in a Willesden college thanks to the legacy of a former teacher who left money in his will.

An opening ceremony was held at the College of North West London’s campus in Dudden Hill where a new outdoor sports court and gym has been unveiled.

David Sweden, a former economics and sociology lecturer at the college who left in 2000 after 20 years service, left a “substantial sum” in his will to support sporting opportunities for students.

Friends of Mr Sweden and trustees of his will cut a ribbon and unveiled a plaque in his memory then took part in a series of sporting activities including basketball, football, tennis and gym circuits with students.

Former CNWL student Leroy Cain, a young sprinter who aims to compete at the top level, returned for the event. He said: “I was here the college and the support I received from the David Sweden legacy set me on the right path and helped me train. I owe my success to the help I received.”

Paul Sinclair, a trustee of David’s estate, said: “David deeply enjoyed a number of sports and would be delighted to see these great facilities for a range of sport and fitness activities now open at the College. He would be proud to know that the facilities he has provided will benefit so many of the College’s students.”

Anna Openshaw-Lawrence, the College’s Vice Principal, added; “It is clear David was generous and had a great passion for sport and improving the lives of the students. Students are already enjoying having more opportunities to play sport and keep fit in their free time at the college. We’re really grateful to the generosity of David and the trustees of his estate for helping us make this happen.”

The facilities are now fully open to the CNWL’s students for both scheduled activities and open-access use.