A Cromer community hub that has welcomed more than 189,000 people through its doors greeted some special visitors for a 10th anniversary celebration.

Eastern Daily Press: North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb and Cromer mayor Tim Adams cutting the birthday cake at Merchants' Place 10th anniversary partyNorth Norfolk MP Norman Lamb and Cromer mayor Tim Adams cutting the birthday cake at Merchants' Place 10th anniversary party (Image: Archant)

North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb, mayor Tim Adams and town crier Jason Bell were among the guests as Merchants' Place marked its first decade.

Opened in 2006 as part of the Community Economic Regeneration initiative, the centre offers essential services to the people of Cromer and surrounding area.

It provides signposting for local services, information on learning and training opportunities, business start-up advice and adult education courses including maths, childcare, English and IT.

The venue is also used by other agencies such as Citizens Advice Bureau, Norfolk Community Law Service, Voluntary Norfolk and Norfolk Community Learning Service.

Representatives from organisations which use the centre attended the open day.

Centre manager Rachel Siddell said: 'We want to encourage more community involvement and for people to know we are here for them. Previously there was nowhere locally for people who wanted to get better qualifications or advice on finance and legal matters.'

She added: 'This is a thriving community hub, we have changed over the years and are re-acting to what Cromer needs.'

Visit: www.merchantsplace.co.uk