THE popular Tintagel visitor centre, which has recently undergone a major revamp, was officially re-opened at a special ceremony on Friday.

First opened 10 years ago as part of North Cornwall District Coun­cil's commitment to promoting the local environment and supporting the local economy, the visitor centre has welcomed over a million people through its doors since that time.

Last year the district council felt that it would be wise to invest once again in the Visitor Centre to bring it up to date and ensure that it continues as a major source of information to those who have an interest in the Tintagel area.

Following the revamp, the centre was officially re-opened by Tintagel resident Bob Flower who, in his capacity as chairman of the district council, first opened the Visitor Centre in June 1999.

Visitors to the redesigned centre will be met by friendly and knowledgeable staff able to provide information about the local area ranging from advice on the most suitable walking routes, bus time tables, tide times and what is the name of the little blue flower that grows on the cliffs to the history of Tintagel village, its castle and the local community past and present.

Rebecca David, the Visitor Services Manager said: "The Visitor Centre is an essential first port of call to anyone coming to Tintagel. There is such a lot to discover about the area, it's not all about King Arthur. There are all sorts of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in the area whether it is spectacular waterfalls, wonderful examples of medieval buildings, the extraordinary geology that has spawned dramatic cliff quarries or simply the unspoilt walking routes that provide some of the best coastal scenery in the country."

The new visually attractive displays provide a wealth of information. Interactive screens show images of the area; carefully crafted exhibits demonstrate some of the nationally significant archaeology and natural history of the area.

There are also guides on local walks, leaflets on the history of the village, books on King Arthur and the castle and lost of information on the local wildlife ensuring that visitors and local people using the resources of this very effective visitor centre will always be able to put a name to a wildflower or bird.

Mr Flower said: "The visitor centre is a very important asset for the village which helps support local businesses by providing information to visitors on local accommodation. Its internet facility is also very popular with local and visitors alike. Being open seven days a week throughout the year helps ensure that Tintagel provides a welcome to people whenever they choose to visit."