A PLAYGROUP set up 50 years ago will celebrate with a special gathering of past and present parents and helpers.

Embsay with Eastby Pre-School Playgroup started life in 1967 when it was set up by three mothers from Eastby.

They met twice a week in the former Embsay Institute, and charged mothers half a crown - 12 and a half pence - to come along.

Now, a special get together will take place during the afternoon of Sunday, January 22 at Embsay Village Hall.

Manager, Judith Robinson hopes all those associated with the playgroup, including past pupils, parents, committee members and staff, will come along and join in the fun.

"There will be tea and cakes, displays of photos from across the years, a DVD of a fashion show from 1997 and activities for children, " she said.

The playgroup has always been run by a committee of enthusiastic and dedicated parents who have worked voluntarily to fundraise and develop the group to meet the needs of local families and ever changing legislation.

In 2015, it was judged outstanding in all areas by Ofsted. The special celebration on January 22 will take place from 2pm to 4pm. Anyone with any photos they would like to have included in the display, should contact Judith Robinson on 01756 791123 or email embsaypreschool@btinternet.com