Works have officially started on the £1m project to build a new community and sports centre in Marshland St James.

Eastern Daily Press: Liz Truss MP officially launched the start of a new £1m project to refurb the community and sports hall in Marshland St James. Also pictured are (from left) Andy Stephens OBE, Lee Chapman, Sue Askew and Cllr Brian Long. Picture: Ian BurtLiz Truss MP officially launched the start of a new £1m project to refurb the community and sports hall in Marshland St James. Also pictured are (from left) Andy Stephens OBE, Lee Chapman, Sue Askew and Cllr Brian Long. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

South West Norfolk MP, Elizabeth Truss, marked the occasion by getting her hands dirty and being the first shoveller to begin the works in Smeeth Road on June 16.

She was joined by West Norfolk council leader Brian Long and pupils from Marshland St James Primary school.

Eastern Daily Press: Liz Truss MP officially launched the start of a new £1m project to refurb the community and sports hall in Marshland St James. Also pictured are (from left) Andy Stephens OBE, Lee Chapman, Sue Askew and Cllr Brian Long. Picture: Ian BurtLiz Truss MP officially launched the start of a new £1m project to refurb the community and sports hall in Marshland St James. Also pictured are (from left) Andy Stephens OBE, Lee Chapman, Sue Askew and Cllr Brian Long. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

Ms Truss said: 'The local residents have done an amazing job at fund raising for the new community and sports centre.

'Work is scheduled to be completed within six months and will have a fantastic array of activities from bowls to Zumba, skate boarding to basketball, new catering facilities, shop and computer club.

Eastern Daily Press: Liz Truss MP officially launched the start of a new £1m project to refurb the community and sports hall in Marshland St James. Also pictured are (from left) Andy Stephens OBE, Lee Chapman, Sue Askew and Cllr Brian Long. Picture: Ian BurtLiz Truss MP officially launched the start of a new £1m project to refurb the community and sports hall in Marshland St James. Also pictured are (from left) Andy Stephens OBE, Lee Chapman, Sue Askew and Cllr Brian Long. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

'It was great to see the primary school children at the site today and I look forward to enjoying a coffee in the new café by the end of the year.'