A nursery that began with just three members celebrated its 18th birthday in Round Bush yesterday.

Aldenham Nursery, off Aldenham Road, Radlett, began in the upper school's pavilion and has grown to a nursery and lower school of 180 students.

Parents, children and staff joined celebrations at a tea party on Friday afternoon, as well as one of the original three members, 21-year-old Abigail Watts.

She helped cut a cake with some of the toddlers from the nursery and said she was amazed at how much it has changed in 18 years.

“It is a lovely environment and seeing how it has changed - and how much the children are supported - is great. It is a lovely place.”

Her mother, Kate Watts, has run the nursery since it was founded and said it was a privilege to be able to watch it flourish over the years.

“There have been so many changes to inspections and rules and regulations and we have excelled through them all. There aren't many schools that can cater for pupils whatever their age and I feel very lucky to be part of it.”

As well as biscuits and treats, the children were entertained by Lofty the clown, while a band from the upper school played music throughout the event.

Kate added: “It has been nice to invite some of the parents down to celebrate making it to 18 years. I guess the ideal future would see us expanding again but I'm not sure that will happen just yet.”