KEEN gamers have a new place to play in Colchester after a gaming shop opened a new 22-seat arena. 

The Belong gaming arena has been launched at the Game store in Lion Walk Shopping Centre after a refurbishment, creating seven new jobs.

Members of the public crowded in to play video games on high-end PCs, Xboxes and Play Station 4s.

The new gaming centre offers customers a chance to try out new and old games and to socialise with other gamers.

It will also provide a dedicated space for gaming tournaments, games nights and technology launches.

Peter Scopes, centre manager of Lion Walk Shopping Centre said: "This is a great addition to Lion Walk, giving gamers the opportunity to come together and dip their virtual toes in the waters of new and fantastic worlds.

"I’ve seen inside and the quality is excellent; I’m sure that Game is going to see a lot of new fans coming through the door.

"Of course it also offers a great place to go and spend time when friends or family members are shopping."

The gaming arena is open Monday to Friday 10am to 9pm, Saturday 9am to 8pm and Sunday 10.30am to 8pm and visitors pay by the hour.

Phil Bruce, store manager at Game said: "I’m delighted that we now have a games arena. It’s a great opportunity for the public to play video games against each other, whilst chatting and exchanging tips and ideas – it will really help build the gaming community in Colchester."