BRIGHTLY coloured bonnets were all the rage in Bratton as the village pre-school marked the end of term in style.

Youngsters arrived dressed in their home-made creations for a day of festive fun featuring dancing and hot cross buns.

Despite his busy schedule, the Easter Bunny also dropped in to present prizes for the best two bonnets.

Deputy play leader Paulene Bryant said: "The bonnets were created at home with the help of friends and family. This resulted in a terrific variety of shapes and styles.

"The children spent the morning voting on their favourite and the most popular two were awarded a special prize from the Easter Bunny.

"The children sang Easter songs and performed a dance for an audience of friends and family."

The pre-school has become a key part of the village community since it started up almost 30 years ago. But it came close to closure in 2000 when the previous play leader left.

Wendy Waller moved from Staffordshire to assume the role and has seen the pre-school go from strength to strength since then.

An Ofsted inspection report published in October praised the pre-school's warm and welcoming environment and role plays, which improved children's imagination and confidence.

It achieved a 'generally good' pass mark and was congratulated for its teamwork, communication and literacy activities.