THE eagerly-awaited completion and opening of Bromsgrove's new High Street took place on Saturday, (August 23).

Funding for the town centre regeneration was first agreed by Bromsgrove District Council and Worcestershire County Council in 2010.

But residents, and councillors, became frustrated at delays to the ambitious £2 million construction project.

Preparatory work, including improving drainage and lighting, took place last year while the main work to give the area an extensive facelift, began in February.

The work has seen the High Street resurfaced and levelled with York stone and granite paving, historic buildings revamped, and new street furniture put in - including seating and both refuse and recycling bins.

The popular statues, the Housman statue and Dryad and Boar, remain in the High Street, with the Boar statue in a new location at the junction with Church Street.

On Saturday, an official opening took place with Bromsgrove District Council's civic head, Councillor John Ruck, cutting the ribbon at the north end of the street.

He was joined by other council dignitaries including Worcestershire County Council's chairman, Councillor Pam Davey.

A family fun day was held which included a magician, drumming group, face painting, a bouncy castle and dance acts.

The main opening is now being followed by five more events taking place every Saturday, between 10.30am and 4pm.

Events each have a theme including sport and leisure, food and drink, a heritage day and arts and crafts.