THERE was a double celebration at Wisbech St Mary Playgroup on Monday, as they celebrated both their 30th anniversary and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Rev Matthew Bradbury cut the ribbon to get the afternoon’s celebrations started, and visitors were able to take a look at photographs charting the 30 years of the playgroup and swap reminiscences.

Guests for the afternoon included former BBC Blue Peter presenter Stuart Miles, who now appears on Heart FM radio.

Playgroup leader Mary McClagish has been associated with the playgroup since it opened, first as a parent, then a committee member, before taking over the reins 26 years ago.

She said: “We had a lovely afternoon, it was great to welcome back former members of staff, and former pupils who now have children at the playgroup. It was all very nostalgic.”

During the afternoon, ice cream salesman Giovani called, and all the children were treated to an ice cream.

Looking back, Mary said: “There have been great changes over the last 30 years. When the group first started, we would put the toys out, take the register, and then play with the children.

“Now we have to set up the room for the six areas of learning, make observations, keep records of progress, and write termly reports.”

To mark the jubilee, playgroup children had made bunting and decorations, and made decorative stamps bearing the Queen’s head.

Mary added: “Working in the playgroup is very rewarding, and it is lovely to see the children progress. I have a very good team of staff that work with me, and I could not run the group without them.”