LITTLE pirates and princesses said farewell to their nursery before it is to be demolished.

Children, parents and staff at Moss Lea Nursery, Sharples Park, had a party to mark the nursery's near 20 years of service.

The private nursery is being flattened to make way for two houses.

Owner Pat Gleaves, aged 61 from Egerton, who is retired, said: "The building has got a lot of history, so it is sad. But it has given me the opportunity to go back and live at a house in a beautiful area. I want to thank all the parents and all the fabulous children we've had. I treasure every wonderful memory."

Deputy officer Jane Murphy, aged 30, from Astley Bridge, said: "The staff have a great deal of attachment to the place and have been here a long time.

"I've got some wonderful memories so it was a very emotional day."

Planning permission for the new development has been approved. Building work starts next month.