WALES and Scarlets rugby star Rob Evans was thrilled to return to his roots and officially open the new playground facility at Spittal Fun Day held on a glorious sun-kissed Saturday afternoon on the village green.

Evans, who was born and raised in Spittal, has just returned from a successful unbeaten summer tour with Wales who defeated South Africa in the USA and claimed two test victories in Argentina.

The Wales star was thrilled to be back home, and happy to pose for photographs and sign autographs for children, with many of his family and friends in attendance.

Secretary Christine Evans said: “It’s brilliant to see all the many years of hard work of everyone involved in our close-knit community finally come to fruition.

“On behalf of our community I would like to thank everyone who made this fun day and grand opening of the superb new playground facility possible.”

In attendance were committee members Judith Doncaster, secretary; David Thomas, chairman; Christine Williams, secretary; Bethan Doncaster and Trevor Theobolt.

Pembrokeshire County Councillor David Howlett was also praised for his involvement in the scheme.

There was entertainment provided in the Church Hall by Spittal School who sang and many families enjoyed a fun packed afternoon that included teas, stalls, bouncy castle and rounders, the playground cost £56,460.39, and Spittal Village received £43,288 from Potters; £10,000 Lottery Grant; Tesco Grant £2,000; Playground Group Fundraising £2110; Community Forum Fundraising £820; Pump on the Green Forum £800; and £2,130 from generous donations from the public.