Playdays, which is based in St Matthew's church hall, is funded by St Helens Council and caters for up to 40 children aged between two and four.

A spokeswoman for the group said: "This is a great achievement for Playdays and our staff. We have great staff who are all qualified, and are experienced mothers themselves, who help contribute to the success of Playdays.

"We also get great support from the council's Neighbourhoods Team. Melanie Mulcahy has been great in helping us apply for grants to improve our setting.

"We were recently granted funding from the "Plots for Tots" scheme which has provided us with a garden area, where children can grow their own fruit and vegetables. Sean Cassin from St Helens Chamber of Commerce and his team of students did a great job creating this special garden with a seating area."

Playdays is holding an open day on Friday, June 27 from 1pm to 2.30pm. For more information call Playdays on 07903 524443.