The organisers of the Olympics will donate thousands of tonnes of sand to St Albans.

Now that the games are over, some of the sand used in Horse Guards Parade will be moved to Verulamium Park to create new beach volleyball courts.

Councillor Mike Wakely, portfolio holder for sports, leisure and heritage at the council, said: "We are pleased that the council’s bid has been successful and that Verulamium Park has been chosen as one of the six venues to receive the Olympic sand.

"Young people in the St Albans area who have been watching Team GB beach volleyball players battling it out at Horse Guards Parade live on TV will soon have the chance to try out this Olympic sport for themselves.

"St Albans is one of six venues across the country to gain a new court as part of a bid to get more people involved in the sport.

Lisa Wainwright, chief executive of Volleyball England, said: "We are hoping that the buzz around the London 2012 Olympic Games will inspire more people to try out beach volleyball as a fun and exciting new sport.

"It’s important that we provide accessible facilities to encourage more regular spectators and players.

"This project will help to create a legacy for volleyball and encourage young people in the St Albans area to adopt healthier, more active lifestyles, creating a sporting habit for life."