Youngsters keep cool by trying new splashpad at Gorleston seafront

Over recent months, families have eagerly watched the new splashpad taking shape, with its fountain sprays, jet streams and buckets of tipping water - all set within an ocean-themed play environment featuring a sail boat, fish, seaweed and starfish.

Today a group of local children were the first to try out the new splashpad, which was officially opened by Cllr Mary Coleman, the mayor, who cut a ribbon across the entrance gate.

The splashpad is opening from 10am to 4pm, seven days a week, for the rest of the school holidays. It will then open at weekends for the remainder of the summer, subject to weather. It is completely free of charge to use.

Cllr Graham Plant, the council leader, said: "Judging from the excitement on social media, the opening of the splashpad has been hotly anticipated - and it's very timely as it will certainly help our youngest residents and visitors keep their cool during the heatwave.

"Gorleston is a family resort, and the splashpad provides a modern, free-to-use, wet play attraction for families, in place of the 1960s paddling pool, which sadly was at the end of its serviceable life.

"We expect the splashpad to be instantly popular, with lots of families choosing to chill out at Gorleston this summer, and it's all part of a wider investment along Gorleston seafront, including the beach huts and the complete refurbishment of the Pier Head toilets to include a Changing Places facility."