PRE-SCHOOL education in Cardross has reached the end of an era - and a special event will be held in the village this weekend to mark the occasion.

The playgroup at Cardross Parish Church recently moved from its home of 53 years to nearby Cardross Primary School in order to fit in with recent legislation calling for closer links between pre-school education and local schools.

Set up in September 1966 by the late Rev Andrew Scobie, the playgroup has since played a huge part in the life of the village, serving hundreds of families from its base in the church hall in Station Road.

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To mark the bittersweet move, the church is holding a special event on Saturday, September 7 from 10am, for everyone who has been associated with the playgroup since its inception all those years ago.

John Young from Cardross Church said: “Those who came as children, helped in any way or were leaders, plus all parents, guardians and children, are welcome to come along that day.

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“We will be placing in the garden a sculpture created by David Irvine depicting children playing.

“We will also be planting a tree to mark the close association of church and playgroup during these past 53 years. Hospitality will be offered to all on the day.”