A FESTIVAL of fun is promised at the opening of Poole’s latest family attraction on Saturday.

The grand opening ceremony of The Ark in Poole Park takes place at 10am, with Cllr Judy Butt, cabinet portfolio holder for public engagement and participation, cutting the ribbon.

The opening party includes the chance to meet The Ark’s resident penguin Tux and take part in activities including face painting and Christmas crafts. And local children will be asked to help decorate the festive tree with a message about their Christmas wish.

New facilities to explore include a three-storey soft play area, café, ice cream parlour and ice skating rink. There is an outside terrace with covered areas and seating overlooking the lake, and local artist Natalie Guy has created a mosaic penguin family.

Local couple Richard and Sarah de Lisle have invested more than £1.6million into the project to transform the former Gus Gorilla’s play area, which has been closed since September.

“After months of hard work, we’re thrilled to finally unveil The Ark – the ultimate in local family fun,” said Richard.

“Our vision was to create a family-friendly, welcoming destination where local people and visitors to the area can meet up, socialise and enjoy great food and drink in a relaxed atmosphere and I believe The Ark has lived up to that vision.”

He added: “Poole Park is one of the area’s real gems and we are excited about the future and look forward to welcoming families.”

The Ark will be open all year round, bar Christmas Day.