A dragon-themed arts fun day breathed fiery new life into a 12th century church at the weekend.

The Murston heArt project – a mix of heritage and the arts – is based at the church, a protected ancient monument off Stadium Way.

On Saturday, it offered a range of activities in and around the building, from games to art and crafts.

The church and its grounds became a Dragons’ Den Fun Palace, part of a national campaign celebrating art and science.

There were dragon egg and spoon races and challenges such as find the dragon’s eggs, while books were made from natural materials.

Upturned pipes were planted with wild flowers, and artist Dean Tweedy oversaw the painting of bollards near the entrance. Last Sunday, an art installation was created, led by Karen Crosby.

Event co-ordinator Sioux Peto said: “It was amazing, the people of Murston really got behind it and we had lots of fun. We counted about 168 people on Saturday and we were really happy about that.

“This is the first major project we have done up here and we got really positive feedback. Thanks to everyone who was part of it.”

Among those involved have been Swale council, social housing provider Amicus Horizon and Swale in Bloom, as well as Kent Wildlife Trust.

Over the next few months, efforts are to be made to secure more funding to turn the church into an arts and heritage centre, with more events due next year.