The Countess of Wessex proved herself a versatile sportswoman today when she opened a sports club.

After being presented with a bouquet by eight-year-old Ella Gates, she joined in with the tennis, netball and cricket as she toured the Marden Sports Club's new facilities in Maidstone Road and chatted to members.

Sophie was then invited to unveil a plaque to mark the club's new beginning and she also planted a tree in memory of her visit.

The club's president Frank Tipples said the countess had been the "perfect" person to open their new grounds, as she had been brought up nearby in Brenchley, went to school in Cranbrook and Pembury and had a nephew who was a cricketing member at the club.

The club's new home offers two astro hockey pitches, four tennis courts and a cricket square and outfield, together with a club house and changing rooms.

The club's former home in Albion Road was sold for housing.