IT was the end of an era for Britannia Playgroup when it was announced that Beulah Methodist Church in the village was to close next month.

The playgroup has been based there for 27 years.

But now it has found a new home. From May 2 it will meet daily in Central Methodist Church hall, Burnley Road, Bacup.

Playgroup leader Jane Holleran said: "We are spending the Easter holidays moving equipment to the new premises and a lot of parents are helping us.

Nicola Jones, an assistant said: "I used to come here when I was little.

"It will be very sad to see it close after all these years.

"However, there will be new opportunities when we move to Bacup."