CELEBRATIONS were held by Worcestershire County Council’s library services team after it moved into a new space at Kidderminster Library.

The occasion was marked with a series of events, which included a coffee morning run by volunteers in support of Kemp Hospice as well as adult learning taster sessions on jewellery making and sewing and a family event run by Chestnut's children's centre.

The refurbished space, which is on the first floor, is also home to an art gallery which will showcase local talent.

The room will also host other events, including regular sessions run by an engage team, offering careers advice to young people.

The revamped library, which has undergone a £300,000 renovation to include the new first-floor art facility and meeting rooms, officially reopened in June.

The gallery was moved from the top floor under the shake-up despite a petition being set up to oppose the changes.

The move caused outrage among Wyre Forest art and music groups, who lost their year-long battle to “save the gallery”.

Speaking about the event, Conservative councillor Lucy Hodgson said: "This is great news for the team and is testament to their hard work and dedication. The idea is that it’s for all the community to use.

“We are aware that there was some initial controversy around the use of the space but the feedback we have received to date has been very positive."