A new football facility has opened after receiving significant funding.

Ringwood Community Hub, on Long Lane, held an opening event for its two-storey pavilion, which includes changing rooms, offices, and a clubhouse.

A 3G artificial turf pitch, part of the same project, opened for football training in February.

New Forest District Council contributed £535,000 from developer contributions towards the project, which had an overall cost of £3.4 million.

The Ringwood Community HubThe Ringwood Community Hub (Image: Supplied)

Cllr Jill Cleary, leader of the council, gave a speech at the opening of the pavilion and said: "It is wonderful to be here, seeing these amazing facilities opened for the community. This has been several years in the making, and I am aware of the partnership work and effort that has been put in to deliver this facility.

"We have invested in this project as we can see the importance of this facility for the area. It will help to address the current need for pitches and help to increase the levels of activity in the area, as well as giving local residents facilities to be proud of.

Cllr Cleary giving a speechCllr Cleary giving a speech (Image: Supplied) "It demonstrates our commitment to investing in our place, to ensure the prosperity of our people. This facility will help to improve the health and wellbeing of our community, young and old alike, existing and new participants."

Cllr Dan Poole, portfolio holder for community, safety and wellbeing, said: "It's great to see the all the facilities now open. The pavilion, artificial pitch and the grass pitches are important assets to the local community and we want to see them supporting as many people as possible, to lead an active and healthy life.

Football at the hubFootball at the hub (Image: Supplied)

"Working with our partners we will see more opportunities for female footballers, walking football and for those with a disability to enjoy being active."

The initiative was supported by the Football Foundation and involved collaboration with Ringwood Town Council and AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust.

More information about the hub's courses is available on the AFC Bournemouth website.