A TETNEY pre-school has a new home after nearly 40 years in the village hall.
This week, Tetney Pre-school Playgroup moved into its new home in the Children's Centre at Tetney Primary School, Humberston Road.
The school, which looks after about 25 children between the ages of two and five, had been based at the village hall since the 1970s.
The move means that the group will now open for five days a week rather than three-and-a-half, as before, bringing more money into the charity which is funded by fees.
The group can also save money on room rental, which cost £36 a day at the village hall.
Lucie Clements, chair of the voluntary Tetney Pre-school Playgroup Committee, said: "It is nice for the children to have a space that is theirs rather than share a room with various other community groups.
"We can open for longer, which will be great for parents who work, and will bring more money in, which will be invested straight back into improving the service."
The new home was previously used as a Children's Centre by Lincolnshire County Council but these services will now move to the village hall, although they could still be held at the Children's Centre during evenings and weekends.
However, it means that many young children who go to the playgroup are already familiar with the venue, having visited with parents for sessions such as messy play and parent and toddler groups.
Parent Beth Stanton, 25, of Westlands Avenue, said: "My daughter has been here already for messy play so she knows the room and I think she will fit right in."
Many also feel that the new home will offer continuity for children, many of whom go on to the primary school.
Laura Allen, 31, also of Westlands Avenue, said: "My children will be coming to primary school here as well so it will be a much easier transition."
Jennifer Stead, pre-school manager, was also thrilled with their new home.
"A lot of the younger children used the centre and many of the pre-school children go on to the primary school so transition to and from here will not be so difficult.
"Many of the pre-school children also have siblings at the primary school so it makes things easier for parents and students," she added.
Tony Bridges, Lincolnshire County Councillor for Tetney and North Cotes, said: "It's a great facility and everyone involved should be congratulated.
"The move is great for the children of Tetney and surrounding areas who can simply go to the next room when they reach the age of primary school."
To find out more about the playgroup, call them on 01472 211447.
