THREE community spirited mums and a teenager have started up a Rainbows Group after finding out children were being forced to join a waiting list to enrol into one of the clubs.

Alison Green from Tottington, with her teenager daughter Nicola (17) along with neighbour Julie Usher and friend Elizabeth Wither from Ramsbottom decided they themselves would become Guiding leaders.

Alison said: "There is a shortage of such groups in the Tottington, Ramsbottom and Holcombe Brook area and a long waiting list.

"As our children were approaching the age of joining, we were discussing the shortage and decided to start up our own Rainbow group for children on the list. My daughter said she would become a Guider as well."

The group is for girls aged between five and seven. The four have been attending training sessions and courses since January to ensure they are "well prepared". The four will hold their first Rainbow group meeting on April 12 at 6pm at Emmanuel Holcombe CE Primary School in Holcombe Village.

"Neither of us has done anything like this before, but we are looking forward to it. The emphasis will be very much on fun. It will not be like school. Children who attend will take part in fun craft activities such as making cakes and card," said Alison.

Although most places have been filled with children on the waiting list, a few places still remain. To enrol children should contact Elizabeth Wither on 01706823978.