A north Norfolk village hall was turned into a mini America as residents of Colkirk celebrated seeing their new stage in use for the first time at the weekend.

A NORTH Norfolk village hall was turned into a mini America as residents of Colkirk celebrated seeing their new stage in use for the first time at the weekend.

Iconic images of the Statue of Liberty, Elvis, Marilyn Monroe and more filled Colkirk Village Hall as the seven-piece Black Bowler Hat Band were the very first performers to appear on the stage on Saturday evening.

The new stage has been bought by a �4,834 Awards for All Lottery grant as well as �500 raised by the Friends of Colkirk Village.

About 80 people attended the sell-out theme night which was organised by the Friends.

People dressed up as everything from cowboys to 1920 Chicago gangsters and enjoyed tucking into American food such as bagels, candy and New York cheesecake.

Jenny Filby, from the Friends, said it was great night and a nice way to launch the new stage.

She said: "The only stage we had before was a heavy solid wood platform that could only fit about three people on it.

"The new stage is much bigger and more versatile - it can be rectangular, square, and even be a catwalk for a fashion show.

"We are hoping more and more people will be able to use it for different performances. It can also

be taken to the school and church

too."

The American night raised about �250 which will go towards village funds.