Ben Rhydding Pre-School Playgroup has celebrated 30 years of success with a party for youngsters and those claiming to be 'young at heart'.

Formed in February 1970, the playgroup has provided several generations of youngsters with the chance to learn through fun.

Some of those early 'students' and the volunteers who looked after them were back in town on Tuesday to celebrate the 30th anniversary.

The Scout hut in Wheatley Lane is 'home' to the playgroup and allows children to indulge in a range of activities from painting to story-telling.

There is also plenty of chance to run around and tackle the slides and the climbing frame.

Clare Lorimer is the chairman of the playgroup committee. She said: "The important point to stress is that children come here to play. They do of course learn through that play. They learn how to build good relationships with other children, for example."

Mrs Lorimer said pre-school provision, and the laws and guidelines surrounding it, had changed in the 30 years since the group's formation but everyone involved was committed to the highest of standards and achievement.

The group received a glowing report from Ofsted inspectors last year, a fact Mrs Lorimer and her eight committee members are very proud of.

She said: "This is not just about the eight committee members. We try to get all the parents of the children involved in 'duties.' It is also a way for parents to meet each other."

As well as reflecting on the success, exchanging old photographs of playgroup classes of yesteryear, Mrs Lorimer said there would be plenty of opportunity for the really important business - tucking into the birthday cake.

Anyone wanting further information about Ben Rhydding Pre-School Playgroup should contact Mrs Lorimer on 01943 602329.

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