Rye playgroupenters new era

The playgroup, in Ferry Road, has been providing a service for 42 years and generations of Rye people have passed through its doors.

Now it is entering a new phase with an enthusiastic, forward thinking committee who are trying to raise awareness of what it has to offer.

A few weeks ago the community rallied round to support a Duck Race event on the River Tillingham, which raised £1,200.

Committee chairman Mark Estcourt said: “We had tremendous support and are so grateful to all the Rye businesses who helped out and supported the event, including Alsfords.

“Rye Butchers provided food for the barbecue, which was a great help.

A nursery group the playgroup started at Tilling Green Community Centre had to be re-located back to Ferry Road, due to the small numbers.

Mark said: “We have had financial issues in the past but we now have a plan and we are optimistic that with the support of the local community we can drive it forward.

“We are a new committee coming to everything with fresh eyes.”

The playgroup’s Ferry Road building recently had a face-lift and renovations are still ongoing.

Hannah Pedder, from the playgroup, said: “The playgroup provides an important service in Rye and staff there are incredibly dedicated.

“We are hoping the community will support us and enable us to keep going.”