A CENTRE which offers services for conferences, meetings and community activities opened its doors to celebrate its independence.

The Riverside Centre, Dickens Road in Gravesend has been open for business since 2004, but only from July this year has it operated independently, trading as a company limited by guarantee.

Last week the centre played host to many people including the chairman of Kent County Council, Leyland Ridings and the Mayor of Gravesham, Cllr Pat Oakeshott.

Once the details of the lease are completed with the county council the company will be applying for charity status, which if successful will bring with it more funding opportunities.