Former pupils and current staff celebrated the 40th birthday of Little Thetford Acorns Pre-School with a party at the weekend.

Ely Standard: Ely36 Gill Stracey, who ran the school from 1984-1987; Helen Lewis, Jenny Staines, Alison Bewers, and two mums who helped run the school in 1976.Ely36 Gill Stracey, who ran the school from 1984-1987; Helen Lewis, Jenny Staines, Alison Bewers, and two mums who helped run the school in 1976. (Image: Copyright: Barry Giddings)

Hundreds looked through photo albums, newspaper articles and shared memories together during Saturday’s event - including children who attended the school in 1976.

Jenny Staines, who started the pre-school along with help from other mums in the village 40 years ago, gave a speech and cut the birthday cake.

Clair Melloy, who helped organise the party, said: “It was lovely to see so many people there that have supported us over the 40 years.”

Ely Standard: Ely36 Current student at the pre-school.Ely36 Current student at the pre-school. (Image: Copyright: Barry Giddings)

Zoe Corley, setting manager, said: “I am overwhelmed with the attendance and support from everyone.

“It was lovely to hear so many memories.”

Originally set up in 1976, the pre-school operated from the village hall. Since then it has grown to offer childcare from 7.45am to 6pm and in 2010 a childcare building was built, designed to operate both pre-school and out of school club sessions as well as holiday clubs.

Ely Standard: Ely36 Looking back through photo albums.Ely36 Looking back through photo albums. (Image: Copyright: Barry Giddings)

It was then that little Thetford Pre-school changed its name to - Little Thetford Pre-school & Children’s Club.

Little Thetford Acorns Pre-School received a ‘good’ Ofsted in August.