The long-awaited fountain in Wolverhampton’s Queen Square opened to the public today – three days ahead of schedule.

Council bosses were planning to switch on the £300,000 water feature on Monday, but the fencing came down this morning.

The fountain can perform a variety of water displays, including jumping arcs, plumes, jets and atmospheric mist.

Bosses also revealed they have included golden lighting in the sequences in honour of Wolverhampton Wanderers FC.

The entire computer generated programme is 11 weeks long.

Cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise Councillor Paddy Bradley said: “I’m sure the people of Wolverhampton will be delighted by the new fountain and will agree it has been well worth waiting for.

“Despite the unforeseen delays due to complex technical difficulties underground, I must congratulate the dedication of council staff and our contractors, who have worked extremely hard to ensure the water feature is working smoothly and efficiently.”

A formal opening ceremony will take place in September. The sequences may be customised for events such as the switching on of the Christmas lights.