FAMILIES and friends took part in an afternoon of activities as Overton Preschool Playgroup staged its 40th birthday party.

The event, which took place at St Mary’s Hall on Saturday had pre-school attendees, both past and present, get involved in party games and a treasure hunt.

Local businesses were also invited to join in the fun.

The Party Booth set up a stall offering balloon decorating and glitter tattoos, while Bloom allowed visitors to plant chocolate-scented plants and decorate party hats.

Ali Davis from Pop Tots also hosted a disco while Core Health’s Charlotte Cutler put on a family fitness session.

With a raffle, tombola and cake sale also featuring throughout the day, more than £800 was raised for the Overton Preschool Playgroup charity, which will be used to buy new toys and resources for the children.

Speaking after the event, chair of the preschool’s Parent Management Committee Laura Harrison said: “A huge thank you to the committee who organised such a successful event, and to everyone who helped, donated or came along and joined in.

“We were overwhelmed by all the support shown to Overton Preschool Playgroup – not just by families that currently attend but also from families who used to attend, and lots of other people who just wanted to celebrate with the playgroup and recognise the charity as a key part of village life.”