BLACK gowns and ribbon-bound certificates made youngsters feel wise beyond their years.

Four-year-olds leaving Beehive Nursery in Blackburn were treated to a special graduation ceremony on Saturday as they headed for primary school.

Parents joined in the traditional egg and spoon and three-legged races.

Deputy manager Julie Boyle said: "It was a great day and everyone enjoyed themselves, though it was sad to see them go after looking after many of them since they were toddlers."