MICHAEL Ancram MP visited Bubbles Pre-school in Pewsey on Friday to see for himself how playgroups are faring in the current educational climate.

Mr Ancram was shown round the facilities at the Wesley Methodist Church Rooms in North Street, toured the outdoor play area and spent ten to 15 minutes chatting with the children.

Playgroup chairman Wendy Hughes said: "We are very grateful to Mr Ancram for being able to spare the time to come and see us. Playgroups are under continuing pressure to provide and develop facilities for pre-school children and it is very hard work.

"We suggested to Mr Ancram that financing a budget rather than basing funding on the number of children on the roll would be a more friendly way of dealing with us."

The playgroup, which has 24 children on its books, is about to launch a mother and toddler group, due to come into being after half-term in July.

On Wednesday May 22 the playgroup will be raising funds for itself with a sponsored pedal car and bike ride on the fire station forecourt.