A CITY centre park, which has undergone a £3million regeneration scheme, was today given a royal seal of approval.

The Duke of Kent – the Queen’s cousin – was on hand to officially open Wharton Park, in Durham.

It has long been a favourite place of leisure and recreation since it was donated to the people of Durham in 1858 by William Lloyd Wharton, then chairman of the Great North Eastern Railway and High Sheriff of Durham.

This year the park has been meticulously renovated based on the views and opinions of the general public who participated in a public consultation on the work.

The Duke was greeted by flag waving children and dignitaries before beginning a tour of the park, including the toddlers’ play area, the Heritage Centre and Education Room.

The views from Wharton Park are one of its crowning glories and the Duke visited the battery, from where he was be able to take in Durham Cathedral and Castle.

He also met members of the local history group, which has worked with Durham County Council on its restoration.

The royal visitor was then taken to the Community Garden where he met and spoke with members of the Friends of Wharton Park Group, who work to encourage community involvement.

He also spoke to Lorraine Udell, a local artist who designed a mosaic for the community garden, before he planted a commemorative tree.

Local schoolchildren invited to the opening ceremony demonstrating the wide range of facilities for children of all ages that have been introduced to the park.

The Spennymoor Brass Band provided entertainment in the Amphitheatre, before he was taken to a marquee, for a formal reception with up to 50 guests and local project volunteers.

Leader of Durham County Council, Simon Henig, said: “It was an honour to welcome His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent to Wharton Park to officially open this flagship project.

“The regeneration work, which was part funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and supported by a wealth of volunteers, has already paid dividends, with visitor numbers to the park significantly up since the gates reopened in May.

“It is wonderful to see the park being used more by local performance groups as well as for educational and vocational training benefits to young apprentices, work placements and school students.

“We are confident that the Wharton Park restoration project will provide a continuing legacy for the community of Durham and that this much loved Victorian park will now remain a popular leisure and culture space for future generations to enjoy.”

Unveiling a plaque, the Duke said: I think this park is something unique. I’ve never seen one like it.

“You have these wonderful views (over the city) and spectacular trees.

“I’m sure it’s going to be an enormous asset and that people will be delighted that it’s back in action.

“I do congratulate all of those who worked so hard to recreate the park. I’m delighted to be able to open it.”