A PROJECT to transform a former marine laboratory into a coastguard station visitor centre reached its conclusion with an opening ceremony yesterday.

Television celebrity and birdwatcher Bill Oddie opened the Old Coastguard Station at Robin Hood's Bay, on the North Yorkshire coast.

Local dignitaries and primary schoolchildren were given the chance to look around the centre and learn about its role.

They saw the centre's new exhibition, display and education facilities, interpreting the qualities of the North Yorkshire coastline and the elements which have shaped the area.

The theme of "looking out, looking into and looking after" has been introduced at the Old Coastguard Station to encourage visitors to explore the dramatic views from the building.

Interactive displays have also been installed to show how tides flow, rocks are created and weather changes.

The centre will open to the public on Saturday, October 21, and daily during half-term week, from 10am to 5pm