YOUNGSTERS from a Durham play school had a double reason to hold a party.

Not only was it the end of term, but they have been given £10,000 for new equipment and toys.

The Little Angels Play School is based in St Bede's Church, Newton Hall, and has places for up to 25 children aged from two-and-a-half to school age.

Tracey Kelly and Vicki Copeland took over as leaders of the voluntary-run facility earlier this year and say the school is thriving.

Durham County Council's Early Years Service offered them the funding.

"Early Years came out to see us and were very impressed with what we were doing," Tracey said.

"We are delighted to get this money. All the toys we had had been handed down to us, so we are getting rid of them and getting new toys. We'll also get a TV and video and a new stereo."

Anyone wanting more information about Little Angels can contact Tracey on 0191-384 4156.