A threatened playgroup is no longer in jeopardy thanks to the hard work and tenancity of a group of volunteers.

Committee member and parent Shelley Strawbridge said the Whitchurch Playgroup has been struggling for the past two years but has come out the other side with a healthy-looking future.

In 2010 the charity-run playgroup for pre-school children was struggling and had the added pressure of an unsatisfactory Ofsted report.

New chairman Marie Winnett and a new committee turned the group around and in six months were on a firmer footing with their next Ofsted rated as good.

Mrs Strawbridge added: “Since then the playgroup has kept going, but it has not been a easy ride. “The number of local pre-school children in the area has dramatically fallen in recent years, and we were desperate for more children in order to keep the group financially viable. “Closure of the group at one time was a high possibility.”

Then Mrs Winnett suggested they take younger children from the age of two, a move not welcomed at first by all staff and committee members.

Mrs Strawbridge said: “Had the committee and staff not passed this decision then it is unlikely that the playgroup would be still running today.”

Mrs Winnett handed over the chairman’s role to Anne Carstairs and is now a level 3 qualified play assistant, with Naomi Baker the play leader and Janna Macdonald the play assistant.

Chairman Anne Carstairs said: “Two year olds have settled in very quickly and seem to love going to playgroup.

“We are thrilled to have been able to keep this fantastic local facility for children going.”

Whitchurch Playgroup currently has a relatively full register, especially since the closure of Charmouth nursery Tick Tocks.

For details call 07747 127758 and visit whitchurch-playgroup.co.uk. Sessions run in the village hall Tuesday-Fridays 9.30-1.30 in term time only.