CHEERS rose up from Lewis Lane Playgroup this week at the news that the stricken centre has been saved from closure.

Last month the Standard spearheaded a campaign to raise £8,000 to save the Cirencester playgroup after a shock theft emptied the charity’s bank account.

The established playgroup was in a desperate state after the financial hit and staff jobs and places for scores of youngsters were left hanging in the balance.

But the outpouring generosity of the local and wider community has prevailed and in a matter of weeks the playgroup has raised around £8,200 to secure the future of the centre.

The final boost came after a bingo and raffle event on Friday night at The Bee’s Knees in Cirencester when many hands were put into pockets to raise more than £300.

Playgroup leader Tessa Collett said: "At this time when no one has any money it’s incredible how much money has been raised in such a small amount of time. We’re absolutely thrilled."

After working at the playgroup for over 25 years, Hilary Lawrence said it was a weight of everyone’s minds to know that the centre would continue.

“It’s not been easy but we just want to leave all this behind us now and put our efforts into moving forwards,” she said.

Committee chairman Kelly Motti said they were delighted to have recouped the £8,000 but warned there would still be tough times ahead.

"There are still hurdles to cross because there are bills to pay and the bank balance is far from healthy, but we know we don’t have to close now. It’s a huge relief to everyone."