A new exhibition at Littlehampton Museum looks at the history of sport in the town and celebrates the range of sports that have been played locally.

The exhibition, called Fun and Games, traces the origins of many of the town's sporting clubs back to the 19th Century.

The Victorians were keen on sport and liked joining clubs so the number increased in the town during that period.

There were also a number of venues in the days before the Sportsfield in St Flora's Road, which was built on land donated by the Duke of Norfolk as part of Littlehampton's celebrations of Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee in 1895.

This tradition continued in 1952 when the Norfolk Gardens facilities were created to mark the coronation of the current monarch.

Sporting events in the town were not only supported by local people and holidaymakers. Many famous players also attended, including Olympic athletes and royalty.

John Singleton, chairman of Littlehampton Town Council's community resources committee, said: "I am delighted we are having this exhibition.

"It celebrates the long tradition of sport in Littlehampton.

"This history is one of the reasons that the town council is so committed to a sports forum for Littlehampton which will help to ensure that sport continues to be a strong feature in the life of the town."

Many of the items on display have been lent by local clubs.

Museum curator Rebecca Fardell said: "We contacted all the local sports clubs and venues that we could think of.

"They have been extremely generous in loaning items for the exhibition which add to the richness of the displays, especially as the museum does not have a large collection of sports related artefacts.

"It also reflects the fact that the clubs were and are a crucial part of the sporting life of the town. We greatly appreciate their support in putting together Fun and Games."

Fun and Games: A History of Sport and Games is at Littlehampton Museum until January 4.