SCHOOLCHILDREN, volunteers, and members of the public turned out in the rain to celebrate the re-launch of a new visitor centre at a wildlife haven in the heart of Weymouth.

The Wild Weymouth Discovery Centre at Radipole Lake was officially opened yesterday with Weymouth and Portland Mayor Graham Winter and RSPB regional director for the south west Tony Richardson on hand to cut the ribbon.

Guests and visitors also braved the wet weather to take a tour of the reserve’s new family trail.

Coun Winter and Mr Richardson both paid tribute to the volunteers who have helped prepare the new facility.

Mr Richardson said: “This project is very much for the future. Weymouth is just about to become a big player in the Olympics and we look forward to playing our part as people arrive to show off the natural attributes of this fine town.”

The new visitor centre features a cafe and indoor seating as well as Wi-Fi and live cameras showing the inhabitants of the reserve, including otters, bitterns and marsh harriers.

Staff and volunteers are hoping the re-launch will accompany an increased programme of family activities and events, such as pond-dipping.

Luke Phillips, Weymouth Wetlands information officer, said: “People will still be able to just go for a stroll and get much better views of wildlife such as warblers and wildfowl and some of our iconic birds.”

Coun Winter added that Weymouth residents are “very lucky” to have a reserve rich in wildlife on their doorstep.

“A lot of Weymouth residents are aware that the Radipole and Lodmoor lakes are there but they do not use them, which is a shame.

“It is a real wildlife jewel in an urban setting.”

The re-designed centre was given a warm reception by visitors.

Pupils from Broadmayne First School came along to feed the ducks and swans and try their hand at pond-dipping.

Bird-watcher Anne Mellars said: “The work to the centre was definitely needed but I think it’s great, especially as it will encourage more children to get involved.”

She added: “I like that there’s a lot of emphasis on it as a resource for the people of Weymouth and Portland, and they are not just spending money on getting the visitors here.”

And Sara Cookson, who has volunteered with the RSPB for five years, described the new centre as ‘marvellous’.

She said: “The family trail is really good as well, with lots of animal-themed carvings.

“Hopefully it will bring a lot more people here, and I think that everyone who has been so far has been very impressed.”