A university sports centre in Oxford is set to reopen today after a £500,000 facelift.

Oxford Brookes' Westminster Sports Centre, at the Harcourt Hill campus, will open its doors to members of the public to showcase its new facilities.

As well as improving the sports and coaching programmes for students, the university hopes to encourage community use.

Jenny Gray, head of sports development, coaching and management at the university, said: "We're delighted with the improvements, that will not only enhance our teaching programmes, but really benefit the community.

"One of the key aims of the project has been to open up the centre to as many people as possible so they can enjoy a full range of sporting activities."

The centre will be open to the public today from noon to 9pm with tours throughout the day.

A new reception, cafe area and brand new fitness studio and changing rooms will be on show.

The open day event is part of the university's plans to develop its campus and improve community relations.

Ms Gray said: "The refurbished centre has excellent facilities that we can really be proud of, and we plan to develop our links with the wider community further.

"The outdoor grounds that include football, rugby pitches and a nine-hole golf course are already used extensively by local schools and organisations."

The refurbished centre will offer students the chance to take new courses, including sports development and management.

Students taking the new modules will gain hands-on experience by carrying out work placements at the centre.

Currently there are 240 students enrolled on the degree programme.