There were cheers from patients, volunteers, ​staff and residents ​at the official opening of a new £14 million clinic.Mick Gilbert-Brown, 87, cut the ribbon to declare Edenbridge Memorial Health Centre open, supported by his wife Jennifer and Tonbridge and Malling MP Tom Tugendhat.

Mr Gilbert-Brown has Parkinson’s Disease and visits every week.

The centre - which was seven years in the planning and construction - combines a GP surgery, children’s services, diagnostic services, a well-being hub and a wide range of outpatient clinics.

It accepted its first patients last November.

Mrs Gilbert-Brown said: “I think this place is wonderful. Mick comes to the day centre every Monday to socialise.”

The Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) and Edenbridge Medial Practice run the majority of services alongside partners from Sevenoaks District Council and the local hospital trust.

KCHFT’s chief executive, Mairead McCormick, said: “Our new health centre will provide quality care to the people of Edenbridge, closer to home and at the heart of our community.

“It is a shining example of supporting people to manage their health, stay well and be part of the community, while delivering care, closer to home.”

Mr Tugendhat said: “This is an amazing facility and will deliver quality care for generations to come.”

Dr Mark Sage, a GP at Edenbridge Medical Practice, said: “Our practice is now the best in Kent and the ninth best in England for getting same-day access.

“This project has shown us what can be achieved if local leaders, healthcare professionals and patients all work together.”

Gemma Riddick, 40, was grateful to be able to access specialist wound care near where she lives, without having to go to hospital.

She has vasculitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the blood vessels, and was experiencing crippling leg pain.

Mrs Riddick said: “My leg had been beyond painful for some months. I was embarrassed by how awful it looked so I just hoped my red raw flesh would heal and I could carry on with my life.

“The clinic was a God-send. The team took the time to listen to me and explain what was happening. Nothing shocked them which made me feel comfortable and confident to talk about my emotional wellbeing, as well as my physical condition, without being judged.”

Alongside specialist clinical care, there is also a well-being day centre on-site to support people living with dementia or social isolation.

Phyllis Streets, 88, is already benefitting from the new community hub. Having moved to the town after her husband died, she found herself feeling isolated and lonely.

She said: “I left some great friends where I used to live and I felt lonely moving to a new place. I was worried I wouldn’t find friendships like I had before, until I started attending the health and wellbeing hub.

“The staff couldn’t do more for you. They’ve introduced me to new people, given me health advice and directed me to the right places for support.”

While at the hub, Phyllis plays games, as well as taking part in quizzes and craft activities, and enjoys lunch with her friends.

“I attend the hub once or twice a week and it has really helped me settle into Edenbridge,” she added.

“I look forward to going every week. I think it’s an amazing place and they should have them in every town to support people like me.”