Orpington MP Jo Johnson cut the ribbon to officially open the Oasis Community Hub with a small group of supporters and school leadership.

"It is fantastic to see the building being put to such good use by the impressive team at St Mary Cray Primary Academy,” said Mr Johnson.

"Great credit must go to all those who have continuously promoted their vision for their centre.

"The hub is an excellent facility that will help to build strong links across the whole community in St Mary Cray."

This was followed by an introduction of the centre to all of the SMCPA children and over 70 school families, who came to see the transformation of the building and what will be on offer.

The Oasis Community Hub is located in Park Road, adjacent to St Mary Cray Primary Academy.

The hub will be offering local St Mary Cray families a FREE range of activities for toddlers, sessions led by play professionals, a chance to meet neighbours and develop friendships, adult education classes with a crèche and a drop-in advice service for parents and carers.

Interested families can find information on the school website (www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk), by email (admin@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk) or telephone 01689 826 081.

Adam Lowing, headteacher, said, "We are delighted to continue to grow our school support and we look forward to seeing many families enjoying our new community hub."

This project is the creation of the SMCPA leadership who want to offer more opportunities to children and their families before they begin primary school.

The school have obtained initial funding from Children in Need and Awards for All, a National Lottery grant. This allowed the school to rent the Duke Youth Centre, which has been underutilised for several years.

Volunteers from Bank of America Merrill Lynch, staff from Bell Group UK, school staff and governors and volunteers from the community cleaned, gardened and painted during April to improve the space and get ready for the launch.

Sheree Dargavel, family services leader, remarked,” I have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the volunteers both on the day and with further offers of assistance and support in resourcing the centre.

"This project has been 12 months in the planning and I am truly excited about finally opening the doors.

"Here at SMCPA we are at the heart of the community and feel we are well placed to extend our offer to all families in St Mary Cray.

"It will be a pleasure to provide more opportunities for young families right here in their local area.

"Whether it is a pre-school gym club, a toddler group or opportunities to join local classes, we will be providing something for everyone at Oasis.”

Article submitted by Julie Covill