People of Welney gathered on Saturday to say “hooray, hoorah and at last” as the village’s long-awaited community centre and sports pavilion was officially opened.

Wisbech Standard: New community centre/sports pavilion at Welney. Left; John Gilbert chairman of the William Marshall Trust and Ken Goodger chairman of Welney parish council. Picture: Steve Williams.New community centre/sports pavilion at Welney. Left; John Gilbert chairman of the William Marshall Trust and Ken Goodger chairman of Welney parish council. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Throughout the afternoon there was entertainment, a bouncy castle, BBQ, cake stall and refreshments, whilst the fun continued in the hall during the evening thanks to a live band and disco.

“It was a thoroughly enjoyable day marking a tremendous mile stone in the history of the village of Welney,” said parish council clerk Pat Copeman.

“There was a nice crowd of people there and they all seemed to enjoy themselves.

Wisbech Standard: New community centre/sports pavilion at Welney. Opened by John Gilbert chairman of the William Marshall Trust. Picture: Steve Williams.New community centre/sports pavilion at Welney. Opened by John Gilbert chairman of the William Marshall Trust. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

“The weather, as well, was glorious – it all came together and everyone who has seen the building thinks it’s wonderful.”

Funding for the pavilion and sports centre, which has been a major project for local people over a number of years, came from WREN (the waste recycling charity), Sport England and Marshall’s Charity.

The ribbon was cut by John Gilbert, chairman of the William Marshall Charity, who also named the building The William Marshall Centre.

Money was also raised from a number of fundraising events and donations over the last few years.