Older people in Great Yarmouth can look forward to a smashing time thanks to a grant from Table Tennis England.

The sport's national governing body has awarded a facility grant of £2,426 to Age Concern Great Yarmouth to help fund new flooring at the charity's premises in the town.

Table tennis is one of many activities at its base in the former Poundstretcher store in Regent Street, and Age Concern's Older Peoples Development Worker Rachel Hardie said it was a winner with visitors, including older people, those with learning difficulties, lonely and vulnerable adults and those with severe mental health needs and memory problems.

'We have always been fortunate enough to have a table tennis table at the group and it was always very popular,' she said.

'Table tennis will be a big part of our use of the floor and we intend to include a variety of activities all leading to improved health and wellbeing and a prolonged and more independent life for our local older people.

'There are no words to express our gratitude, happiness and excitement for our new flooring. We are just super happy!'

Table Tennis England's Head of Operations Jonathan Bruck said: 'We hope this grant will make a real difference to the club and help to get more people playing table tennis in better surroundings.'

The new age Concern Venue will be known as the Acorn Centre. It will be where older people can go and join in activities, get information and support, and meet new friends in a safe and supported environment.

This 'centre of excellence', as the charity is calling it, will be able to open early this year due to the support and kind donations that they have received.