A new games area basked in steaming sunshine on Saturday as a ribbon was cut to let the games begin.

North Norfolk District Council leader Helen Eales did the honours before two six-a-side teams took to the artificial turf at the Stalham Sports Centre multi-use games area.

The council provided the �92,000 needed for the area behind the sports centre. It is designed to lure footballers out of the sports hall and allow fans of other sports - like badminton and basketball - to make the most of the indoor facilities.

Mrs Eales told a gathered crowd of young people and officials: 'I've been asked to cut this ribbon on behalf of the council so that the school can enjoy more space for sports and other activities in the sports hall.

'It's good news for you and good news for everybody in the town. Without further ado, I declare this new facility open.'

Despite a blunt pair of scissors, Mrs Eales managed to cut the ribbon at the third attempt, to a warm round of applause.

Colin Brzeczek, community sports manager, said: 'We have a lot of people who play football in the hall. We've created this facility so more people will play football outside and create more opportunities indoors for sports such as badminton and basketball.'

He said the council had set aside �100,000 a few years ago for sports facilities in Stalham. The aim was to bolster the sum with grant aid, but an application for money was rejected.

Mr Brzeczek said: 'The money from the council remained in its budget for Stalham, and it was decided that this was the best way to use it.'