VILLAGERS flocked to the new premises of a nursery, playgroup and out-of-school club on Saturday for its official opening.

Vale of York MP Anne McIntosh opened the portable cabin in the grounds of Knayton School, near Thirsk.

The building is home to the nursery and playgroup from nearby Borrowby and the Hillside Out-of-School Club.

It was put up in the summer following a five-year fundraising campaign, and the children moved in after the October half-term.

Miss McIntosh said: "I am delighted to have opened this excellent new facility, which will provide a tremendous service to parents in Borrowby. I wish them every success for the future."

The official opening was followed by a fundraising bazaar for Borrowby Playgroup, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

The event raised more than £100, which will go towards the running costs and equipment of the playgroup.

The manageress of all three groups, Linda Chapman, said: "The Portacabin is a dream come true.

"Not only have we created a wonderful learning environment for our young children, we have extended to meet the needs of school children and parents by providing before and after-school care.

"I would like to thank not only the Hillside Parish, but my own parish of Kirby Sigston for their support and sponsorship as, without them, it would not have been possible."