A pre-school in Pirton has officially opened its new outdoor play area.

Bim Afolami, the MP for Hitchin and Harpenden, cut the ribbon on the newly-renovated facility at Pirton Pre-School following the end of the Easter holidays.

Fundraising for the project was supported by the Rands Educational Foundation, a local charity providing educational and recreational grants in the area.

Members of the Foundation attended the opening, where everybody was able to enjoy music, dancing, bubbles and cake. Children at the school and their parents were also there to see - and use - the new equipment.

Karen Illsley, manager of Pirton Pre-School, said: “We all know how vital physical play is in a child’s early years.

"I’m delighted to have been able to lead on this renovation to ensure we are providing exciting, challenging opportunities for the children to explore.

"We are so lucky to have such an amazing outdoor space and now it's even better.

"It was an honour to invite the community in to show them just how much the children love their new outdoor space!”

Bim Afolami said: “Supporting local Early Years providers to deliver a top class service for local parents and children is a top priority for me.

"I was delighted to be asked by Pirton Pre-School to come along and open their new play area – which I can see will provide a real boost to the young people that use it.

"I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this will have.”

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Cllr Claire Strong said: “John Hayes and I as trustees of the Rands Education Foundation were delighted to attend the grand opening of the new Pirton Pre-School outside play area.

"The charity had supported the fundraising so it was good to come along and see the finished project and all the children having fun enjoying the new equipment.”