A COMMUNITY fun day has been held to mark the 40th birthday of a nursery.

Beechdale Nursery School celebrated its ruby anniversary recently with a range of family friendly events.

There was Maypole dancing, cakes on sale and chicks from Hall Hill Farm as well as games and activities.

Chairman of governors Alex Watson, who represents the area on Durham County Council, said: “It was a great day and was well supported by parents.

“It is 40 years since the nursery was created and it has had incredible success.

“In recent years the nursery has had a hat-trick of outstanding Ofsted reports and its fundraising and sponsorship from the late Sir Tom Cowie has raised over £135,000 of wonderful investment over the last eight years for the benefit of our children.

“It's a nursery that never stands still.

"It is progressive and always looking for how it can improve children's learning and well being.

“You can't always shape the future for our children but you can shape the children for the future.”