A £5 million facelift at Birchwood Park and Golf Club got off to a flying start at a family open day.

The grand opening of the sports and leisure complex was celebrated with a fun-packed day of entertainment, food and drinks.

There were also putting competitions, a disco, stilt walkers and a magician, to the delight of all age groups.

The Mayor of Dartford, Cllr John Burrell, was special guest and completed the draw for a family membership. Swanley Big Sing Choir also performed.

Melanie Drake, the club general manager, said:“It was a great event for all the family, and we were delighted to see so many new faces enjoying the club.

“The new facilities, including the spa and swimming pool, received great feedback on the day and we had nearly 70 people sign up there and then for membership.

“Birchwood Park has always been a bustling club, full of activity, but now we hope to see even more people choosing to spend their leisure time with us and making full use of the new developments.”

Highlights of the new facilities include a hydrotherapy pool and panoramic sauna in the wellness area, 60 new pieces of luxury gym equipment and a full timetable of more than 50 classes per week at the new pool and studios.

The club offers a range of flexible memberships for health and fitness, golf and the country club as a whole.