Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara switched on its new LED light and water features ahead of its Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas celebrations.

The Sikh temple, in Khalsa Avenue, Gravesend, has been working on replacing the fountain after it broke earlier in the year.

General secretary of the Gurdwara Jagdev Virdee said they had been working since the beginning of this year to fix the water feature and wanted to ensure it was turned on for Diwali.

He added: "We switched it on last week. Everything has been upgraded and the fountain has been replaced."

Jagdev explained the new LED lighting is easier to control and change so they are able to alter the colour to support different causes and events.

Before they used to have to change them manually which was difficult to do but the new software means they can do this a lot quicker and easier.

The place of worship also thanked the Sian Family from Sian Formwork Ltd, Gurdeep Singh Balrow of Electrical Solutions Ltd and specialist contractors Fountaineers Ltd for completing work.

The lighting and fountains were used for the first time last night as the Gurdwara celebrated Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas – which recognises the release of the sixth Sikh guru from prison in 1619.

There was Kirtan (singing of Sikh hymns) and Katha (preaching Sikh philosophy) from 10am until 7.30pm which ended with fireworks.

Visitors were invited to join the celebrations but were reminded intoxicants such as alcohol and tobacco are forbidden, alongside meat, fish and eggs.