It started more than two decades ago as a vision to bring a new community hub to a mid-Norfolk village.

Now, after 22 years of fundraising and campaigning, the village of Lyng has opened the doors on its new state-of-the-art community hall.

Serving the village between Reepham and Dereham, as well as Sparham and its surrounding parishes, the Lyng and District Community Hall is able to provide improved facilities in the heart of the Wensum Valley.

Trustee Alan Chapman praised the amount of hard work which had happened behind the scenes to bring the project to fruition.

He said: 'We've done a lot of fundraising, as have many, many other groups, individuals and organisations. From business, to individuals, and the schoolchildren, the community has really got behind this project.

'There has been so many people come in and out of the project over the years. It's been a real community effort.

'This new building is for future generations to enjoy.'

The previous village hall was demolished last year after the old, post-war structure had reached the end of its life.

Building work started on the new hall in 2017 and was supported by a grant of £744,516 by The National Lottery Community Fund, as well as other organisations.

Located in Richmond Place, the hall has modern facilities, including full disabled access, a large hall, semi-industrial kitchen and a smaller meeting room.

Bookings are already being made and there is expected to a be a full programme of events and activities on offer for all areas of the community, including table tennis, badminton, tai chi, Pilates, Zumba, bingo, line dancing, baby yoga, toddler book club, dog training and a family support group.

The building was opened to the public at 10am on Saturday April 6 and gave residents and visitors the chance to view the facilities for the first time.

An official opening is planned for Sunday July 14 to coincide with the village fete, affectionately dubbed the Lyng Fling.

- Details of how to book and what events are being run can be found at the website .