Staff at a pre-school faced with closure, are celebrating after winning a stamp of approval from Government inspectors.

Cherry Tree Pre-School, based at Headington Community Centre, in Gladstone Road, Oxford, received glowing praise in a report by the Government's education watchdog Ofsted.

In a previous inspection, the pre-school received a poor rating, and its ability to keep state-funded places depended on gaining top marks.

The report praised the pre-school environment, and range of creative activities on offer.

Playgroup chairman Tanya Field said: "Ofsted gave us a much needed stamp of approval. We are proud of our staff and of the children, who all shone."

Cherry Tree's supervisor Sarah McCarthy said: "We are giving the children a good start, and I am so proud of all of them."

Childcare development officer at Oxfordshire Social Services Frances Duffy said: "It is heartening that the staff and committee rose to the challenges and are providing a good quality service."

tim.hughes@nqo.com