Preston nursery celebrates 20th anniversary after 'trying year'

Busy Bears, which is owned by Netstar 9, held a fundraising party to celebrate the milestone and to raise money for the Chorley children's hospice.

More than £1,000 was raised for the hospice on the day with donations still coming in.

Balloons, bunting, banners and fun were the order of the day during which all of the children turned into 'bouncing bears' for a sponsored bounce.

Stuart Birchall, Netstar 9, said: "It is amazing to think we have been providing childcare to our local community for 20 years now.

"Against the backdrop of a really trying year for all our children and families I am immensely proud to have a team of staff who are passionate about their work and have the trust of our families to nurture, develop and grow their children in partnership, providing them with the best possible care in a safe, secure, home from home environment.”

Throughout the day, children took part in fun activities like party hat making, dancing, and party games.

A memorable visit from a live 'Busy Bear' finished the celebrations and the 'bear' also brought a cake to the party.

Busy Bears Nursery operates out of a two-storey farmhouse with an acre of grounds and provides care for up to 70 children.

The nursery was awarded a rating of 'good' by Ofsted which called the team 'inspirational'.

Founded in 2001, Netstar9 Childcare also runs School House Nursery in Blackburn and Summerfield Nursery in Lytham.

All three nurseries provide forest school lessons.