THE grand re-opening of a £850,000 Worcester park and community centre is taking place today.

Fireworks and football will mark the opening of the new-look King George V playing fields in Brickfields at 6pm.

The playing fields will feature a state-of-the-art community centre, floodlit all-weather football pitch and several outdoor play areas following the 11-month redevelopment which was funded by a grant from the Football Foundation.

The event will be attended by foundation president Lord Pendry, as well as Worcester-born footballer Mark Little, who now plays for Wolverhampton Wanders, and the Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Lucy Hodgson.

Also attending will be local campaigner Biddy Furlong – lifelong president of the Friends of King George V – who has been campaigning for better facilities for the past 60 years.

Mr Little said he believed that the facilities would also help nurture some more talented footballers in the area.

“It’s quite a development and it’s great that we have got it in Worcester at last.

“I can’t wait to see the newly developed site,” he said.

“I know there are a lot of lads about who enjoy football and I’m sure the new facilities will feed their skills.”

l Keen walkers are being encouraged to take a 45-minute walk around King George V playing fields to help improve their health.

City council park wardens are urging people to join them every third Friday in the month. The next one takes place on Friday at 2pm. Health Trainers from Warndon Community Centre will be joining Friday’s walk to offer advice on healthier lifestyles.

People are advised to wear sturdy footwear and outdoor clothes.

Meanwhile keen gardeners are invited to help plant spring bulbs in the park on Saturday, November 29, between 11am and 1pm.

For information call Michelle Newell on 07917 623481.