12 pictures inside the new Beachcomber cafe at St Annes North Beach Wind Sports Centre

The Wind Sports Centre was officially opened today and the adjoining Beachcomber Cafe has already been proving a big hit.

The St Annes-based Kite Surfing Club and Land Yacht Club will operate from the modernised Centre, providing a headquarters where residents and visitors can take advantage of a beachfront described as one of the best for wind sports in the UK.

It will also offer a hub for the Fylde Coastal Rangers to operate from, as well as a purpose-built Changing Places accessible bathroom.

Coun Karen Buckley, leader of Fylde Council, who performed the opening ceremony with Fylde mayor Ben Aitken, said: “The North Beach Wind Sports Centre renovation is thrilling, and I have been delighted to see a warm welcome for the Beachcomber Café.”

The cafe is open to all all year round and is operated by Linda Bloor, already in charge of The Pavilion Cafe in Ashton Gardens.

Coun Michael Sayward, chairman of Fylde Council’s tourism and leisure committee, said: “To be able to offer such a comprehensive seaside sports facility for visitors and residents alike is a wonderful coup for Fylde.

"Our beaches already attract people from all around the world for events like the annual kite festival, and the new centre will only enhance this offer, as well as provide residents with a delightful unique amenity they can enjoy only a short walk away.”