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

The Dolphin Centre, in Darlington, has been given a £5m transformation during the past year, with facilities added and areas improved.

It is the venue's biggest renovation since it opened more than 25 years ago.

To mark the completion of work, Darlington Borough Council has organised an open weekend at the centre, in the market place.

Among new features are a sea-themed soft play area with sensory provision, a continental-style cafe bar, Darlington's Register Office and a 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 centre fully reopens at 7am today, with celebrations from 10am to 3pm today and tomorrow.

Visitors can take a guided tour of facilities, take part in competitions, watch children's entertainers, and see fitness demonstrations such as salsa aerobics and tai chi.

Cast members from Darlington Civic Theatre's pantomime, Cinderella, will drop in and Santa will make an appearance.

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

Lee Vasey, the council's cabinet member for leisure services, said: "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."