WINCHESTER'S new mayor returned to her roots on Saturday for a garden party celebrating the revamp of a city creche.

Cllr Angela Clear joined children, parents and friends of Maples Day Nursery to launch its new playrooms, garden and fort.

The pre-school, in Hatherley Road, now boasts areas for bug hunting, mud-pie making and play construction, as well as separated spaces for different age groups.

Cllr Clear, herself a former nursery owner, cut the ribbon on a commemorative framed picture by the children.

She said the early years sector had been through changes since her time but some things stayed the same.

“Learning through play and having fun is still the aim," she told guests. "I can see that children are not only learning but having a great deal of fun in this impressive nursery.

“I am particularly delighted to see the imaginative use of garden space which encourages the children into the fresh air all year round and whatever the weather. Quite apart from the health benefits, I believe imaginative play outside is fundamental to a child’s learning and the development of their communication and planning skills."

The Mayor also met seven chicks hatched by the children.

Maples Area Manager, Faye Walker, said her staff were delighted with the new facilities.

She said: “The emphasis is always on fun and learning through play whether it is at the very latest interactive smart board or at our growing beds where children can pick up ideas in maths, science and environmental messages as they plant, tend and harvest flowers and herbs."

“I am particularly delighted with the new and separate preschool suite which will enable us to do more in incorporating the required independence skills for each school into nursery activities and welcome future educators to meet and spend time with children before they graduate.”