THE Great British Bake Off star Mel Giedroyc spoke of her pride in Britain's arts centres as she opened Chippenham's revamped Neeld Community and Arts Centre.

She introduced a night of entertainment as the new hall played host to its first event since its £680,000 refit.

The TV presenter and comedian went down a storm, joking with Chippenham Mayor David Powell and council leader Desna Allen on stage before cutting the ribbon.

Ms Giedroyc, proudly wearing her Neeld T-shirt, cut a special Victoria Sponge cake in the shape of the newly refurbished centre, designed by Louise Merritt of Celebration Surprise.

Despite a few struggles, the Bake Off presenter was eventually able to inspect the cake in true Paul Hollywood-style with no signs of the dreaded soggy bottom.

She said: "I am so delighted to be here. Arts centres hold a very very special place in my heart. My comedy partner and I, Sue, spent many, many years between leaving university before we got our break performing in places like this.”

With the ribbon and cake cut, Mel met many members of the public who had turned out to see her, even receiving her own special cake from one young fan.

Coun Powell said: “Tonight’s opening is the culmination of four years of work by Chippenham Town Council to create a high quality, flexible venue.

“What you see is the result of that vision, a venue that not only accommodates community activities, wedding receptions, private functions and corporate events but brings the arts to Chippenham.”

Further entertainment for the crowds was provided by CLOGS Musical Theatre Group, who will be performing Oliver! at the Neeld in March.is a privilege to present according to TV star and comedian Mel Giedroyc.

Before the opening the presenter spoke about what she thinks makes the hit BBC One show, which crowned Nadiya Hussain its winner last week, so popular.

“I think, judging from what people tell you they like, it is the kindness and mellowness. You get to know the bakers in a very organic, slow and natural way,” she said.

“It’s actually a total privilege to present. Without wanting to sound too cheesy, Sue and I sometimes can’t believe we’re being paid to do it.

“It’s hanging out with each other, which is always a joy, and then with Paul and Mary, our sort of older brother and mother, we’re like this weird slightly dysfunctional family just hanging out and having a right old laugh. There’s lots of teasing.”