‘OUTSTANDING’ care at Appleby Primary School has been celebrated by Penrith and the Border MP Rory Stewart.

The Eden politician joined a party to mark a glowing Ofsted report that awarded the school’s Magic Garden Nursery and breakfast, after school and holiday clubs the highest accolade.

During the event staff, parents, children and committee members thanked him for his support during the nursery’s first year of operation.

“It is wonderful to see the Magic Garden going from strength to strength, especially when there was so much uncertainty around its future last summer,” said Mr Stewart.

“Manager Gina Harper and her staff and committee have turned this provision around to be a thriving nursery that provides local children with a great space to learn and grow.

"It absolutely deserves its 'outstanding' marks from Ofsted and I am glad to have played a small part in its history.”

Inspector Carys Millican was particularly impressed with the nursery’s outdoor facilities which includes a musical organ made from plastic drainage pipes.

In her report she wrote: “The outdoor garden play area is exceptionally well resourced and well organised with highly innovative sensory experiences provided for children.”