Former England rugby captain Phil Vickery joined youngsters to celebrate the opening of a new extension at an autism home in north Norfolk.

Eastern Daily Press: Rugby star Phil Vickery opens the new conservatory at Clement Lodge at Sidestrand Hall School with it's newly built conservatory funded by Wooden Spoon Children's Charity. Pictured are Sarah Macro (head teacher at Sidestrand Hall School), Tom Redman and Phil Vickery.Photo by Mark BullimoreRugby star Phil Vickery opens the new conservatory at Clement Lodge at Sidestrand Hall School with it's newly built conservatory funded by Wooden Spoon Children's Charity. Pictured are Sarah Macro (head teacher at Sidestrand Hall School), Tom Redman and Phil Vickery.Photo by Mark Bullimore (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

The sports star is an ambassador for the Wooden Spoon charity which helped fund the £12,500 project at Clement Lodge near Cromer.

The home is part of Sidestrand Hall School, which caters for children age three to 19 with complex needs.

Mr Vickery, who retired from professional rugby in 2010, travelled up from his home in Gloucestershire for the event today.

The 38-year-old said: 'This is not just a conservatory, it will make a real difference to their time at this home. You can see by the smiles on their faces.

'Since I became an ambassador for this charity I have had the privilege of travelling to open projects like this.'

The home aims to keep children with autism in the county, and closer to their families.

The six youngsters at the home have free use of the new extension, which looks out over the garden and across to the sea.

Wooden Spoon aims to positive impact on the lives of disadvantaged children and young people.