THE Kylsant pre-school play-group in Broadway has changed its name to The Little Friends pre-school playgroup to help boost its profile in the area.

Treasurer Linda Witts said the playgroup, based at Broadway Youth Club, in Leamington Road, changed its name as part of an overall campaign to improve the existing facility and attract more youngsters.

When Sue Witts took over as chairman in September they had ten children on their books and decided action was needed in order to survive.

They now have more than 20 children, aged between two and five, attending their five morning sessions but still feel the playgroup, which has been in Broadway for more than ten years, needs some improve-ments.

All the staff and management lent a hand during the half-term holiday to brighten up the playgroup environment - one member of staff painted a huge Winnie the Pooh mural on the wall.

They have been fundraising for some time to help stay afloat with activities like Christmas raffles and coffee mornings and the children recently took part in a sponsored obstacle course race.

They have already been able to improve by creating storage space with a new shed but will now be looking at grant applications to help fund new equipment for the children.

The official ceremony took place on Friday, February 28 when fire service mascot Blaze Bear and Wychavon District Council chairman John Smith had the honour of re-opening the centre as the Little Friends playgroup. Playgroup leaders are organising an open morning to be held on Friday, March 21 between 9.30am and 12noon when new members will be warmly welcomed.