ONE of the first playgroups set up in the north west has been celebrating its 40th birthday.

St Margaret's Playgroup in Prestwich was founded in 1964, opening for one morning a week, with a fee of two-and-a-half pence.

Now the playgroup in St Margaret's Road is still flourishing, with eight sessions per week and having recently being given a very favourable Ofsted report.

It was formed by St Margaret's Young Wives Group and some of the founder members, together with a former supervisor, were invited back for the 40th celebrations. They have all kept their ties with the parish, being members of St Margaret's Mothers Union.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Councillors Barry and Sharon Briggs, attended the special occasion where a fancy dress party was held for around 50 youngsters, based on books and rhymes, and they enjoyed an indoor picnic.