NEW sports and games facilities opened in Ropley are already proving a big hit.

The village’s new multi-use games area was officially opened on September 17 by East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds.

The facility has been ready since July and East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) ward councillor for the area, Charles Louisson, said it was already proving popular.

“The village is well served with sporting facilities with football and cricket pitches, as well as a play area for younger children, but there was nowhere for young teenagers to go and play sport.

“Since it was completed it seems to be used almost all the time and I am sure it will become a really valuable asset for the village,” he said.

“Sunday’s official opening was a fantastic event, with a barbecue followed by lots of different sports during the afternoon which really showcased what the multi-use games area can do.”

The all-weather facility, which will be run by the Ropley Lawn Tennis Club, includes netball and five-a-side football pitches and will also be used by nearby Ropley Primary School.

East Hampshire District Council awarded the project £23,600 in 2015 while Mr Louisson passed on £1,000 of his councillor grant budget.

Residents attending the open day were photographed using a drone-based camera operated by SeaBlueMedia.