HATS off to Copythorne Playgroup.

Not only have the youngsters made some brilliant bonnets to celebrate Easter, but teachers and helpers are walking tall after gaining accreditation from the Pre-school Learning Alliance.

Supervisor Denise Wiltshire said Copythorne's children and grown-ups alike deserved April showers of praise for their achievements.

"We have lovely children here and they made some wonderful hats at the playgroup this morning," she said.

"This season is second only to Christmas for being fun and colourful."

Mrs Wiltshire also explained the importance of the new accreditation certificate, which was presented today to the playgroup in Copythorne Village Hall.

"The inspection by the Pre-school Learning Alliance is very vigorous - even more than Ofsted - and we were judged 'outstanding' in four areas - interaction, teamwork, parental involvement and adults as role models."