Children sounded the sirens in celebration of their newly refurbished nursery in South Oxhey with the help of members of the emergency services.

The former Places for Children nursery in Altham Gardens, which relaunched as The Co-operative Childcare, welcomed policemen, nurses, fireman and even a fire engine as part of the nursery’s opening theme - "people who help us".

The local emergency services arrived in their uniforms to give educational talks on their roles within the community and the importance of their job. The children were also lucky enough to climb aboard and explore the fire engine.

The educational sessions were followed by a tea party for the children with healthy snacks and drinks. Later parents were invited to an open evening, giving them the chance to speak to members of staff and tour the nursery.

Nursery Manager Becci Turner said: "The children had a great day learning all about the different roles of the emergency services. They thoroughly enjoyed the tour of the fire engine and seeing the nurses, firemen and policemen dressed in their uniforms."

The nursery, which is part of The Midcounties Co-operative, was officially opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony by Pauline Williams, Manager of the Children’s Centre.

More than £140,000 has been invested in the nursery, freshening up the outdoor space and providing new play areas and educational equipment. It became part of The Co-operative Childcare after The Midcounties Co-operative acquired eight Places for Children nurseries.

Becci added: "We are a community nursery committed to meeting the needs of local families for early years care and learning delivered by a trusted provider."