A REVAMPED leisure centre will finally be unveiled in Darlington today after undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment.

The Dolphin Centre has been given the £5m transformation during the past year, with facilities added and areas improved in what represents the venue's biggest renovation since it was opened more than 25 years ago.

To mark the completion of the project, Darlington Borough Council has organised an open weekend at the leisure centre in the Market Square, with all of the new areas being showcased.

Among the centre's new features are the Under The Sea-themed soft play area with sensory provision, a continental-style cafe bar, Darlington Register Office and a new box office for the Civic Theatre and Arts Centre.

Almost £100,000 worth of fitness equipment has been installed in the extended Pulse Suite 2.

The refurbishment has also included the creation of a changing village, which has already been used by more than 50,000 visitors.

The centre re-opens at 7am today, with the celebrations running from 10am to 3pm and during the same period tomorrow.

Visitors will have the chance to take a guided tour of the new facilities, take part in competitions, enjoy children's entertainers, and see fitness demonstrations ranging from salsa aerobics to Tai Chi.

Cast members from Darlington Civic Theatre's pantomime, Cinderella, will be paying a visit and Father Christmas will also make an appearance.

Gym users will receive a free water bottle today, while the Bar Bistro, which can seat up to 140 diners, will offer a complimentary glass of bucks fizz.

The centre was originally opened in 1983 by the legendary athlete Sir Roger Bannister.

Lee Vasey, the council's cabinet member for leisure services, said: "The refurbishment of the Dolphin Centre has been a hugely exciting project and I am absolutely thrilled with the new look.

"The facilities are much improved and really confirm the Dolphin Centre as one of the finest leisure venues anyone could wish to visit. I hope as many people as possible take the chance to come and take a look for themselves."