A PROJECT to replace a playgroup’s dilapidated building has received a cash boost thanks to one its young members and her family.

Natalie Hurst had friends from Bream Early Learners to her fourth birthday party on Saturday – but instead of bringing presents, they made donations to the building fund.

The big-hearted gesture raised more than £600 for the project which needs to raise another £65,000 to reach the target of £100,000 before group’s lease expires in November on the modular building at Bream School.

The school and Gloucestershire County Council have earmarked a piece of land for the replacement building and a planning application has been submitted for a new base for the group.

There are currently 24 children from the age of two at the group, but it is hoped to increase the number to 30 when the new building is available.

The fun afternoon was held at Bream Sports and Social Club on Saturday (May 11)and had a strong Disney theme.

Early Learners manager Estelle Harvey said: “Liza Hirst and her family put on a wonderful party for their daughter’s fourth birthday with the sole purpose of raising funds for Bream Early Learners which Natalie attends.

“There was a bouncy castle, a raffle, princesses, a castle, glitter tatoos and more.

“Liza and her family raised an amazing £608.40 on Saturday, all going towards Bream Early Learners’ new building.”

Treasurer Mikaela Heaton added: “It was a phenomenal afternoon and we are

grateful to Liza for asking for donations to the building fund.”

Liza and the staff at Bream Early Learners also thanked a number of local businesses for their donations t as some had already donated to their online raffle a few months ago

They were: The Coffee Shop, Cave Studios, Kaplan’s, Whitemead, Perrygrove Railway, Raglan Farm Park, Noah’s Ark Zoo, Merlin Cinema, Oasis Beauty Salon, Andy’s Butchers, S J Golf at Bells Hotel and Golf Club, The Woodman, John Donoghue, Jess’ Mobile Hair, Co-op in Coleford and Tesco Express.

Anyone who would like to make a donation to the group’s building fund can do so by visiting the Bream Early Learners website at www.breamearlylearners.com