A TENTH anniversary party for a Radcliffe pre-school was also a chance for youngsters to say goodbye to school pal Lydia Pettie.

The three-year-old is emigrating to Australia with her family.

Footsteps pre-school, based at St Andrew's Church, off Ainsworth Road, is run by the church for the community, and opened for the first time in April, 1994.

Manager Carole Thompson and the staff team decided to hold the birthday party to thank those people who have helped and supported the group over the last decade.

And the children, helper "aunties" and parents enjoyed a special cake to celebrate the event.

Mrs Thompson, said: "The children had a superb time and the aunties worked really hard to make the event a success.

"We had party games with prizes, and it was a chance for everyone to say goodbye to Lydia.

"It was a lovely morning."