CHILDREN and staff at a pre-school have been celebrating its 40th anniversary with cake and games. Grange Tiny Hands Pre-School, at the Grange Community Centre in Middlefields, Letchworth GC, was opened on January 10, 1966 by former leader Kathy Hull. Mrs

CHILDREN and staff at a pre-school have been celebrating its 40th anniversary with cake and games.

Grange Tiny Hands Pre-School, at the Grange Community Centre in Middlefields, Letchworth GC, was opened on January 10, 1966 by former leader Kathy Hull.

Mrs Hull returned to join current school leader Stephanie Head and eight other staff members, alongside pre-school children and North East Herts MP Oliver Heald to celebrate.

Mrs Head, the school leader for the last six years, said she believes the secrets of their success are strong leaders.

She said: "I took over from a very strong leader, and she took over from a strong leader. We tend to spend quite a while working here and this helps with stability.

"The community centre has also been very supportive to the pre-school."

Mrs Head said many former children visit the school as adults.

She said: "We have had people come back to do work placements, we have Michelle Daly, who used to attend, now working here and a lady who attended the school in her childhood now brings her daughter."

In the future, Mrs Head is hoping to expand the community building.

"It would be nice to have more room and a quiet area in the building," she added.

Mr Heald was delighted to join the celebrations and wished everyone continuing success.

He said: "The pre-school was built up originally by local mums on a voluntary basis and has provided excellent childcare for the past 40 years.