Christmas came early for a playgroup in Wooburn Green which received a generous donation of more than £1,800 from rotary club members.

Staff at the Marlow Opportunity Playgroup, in Watery Lane, were celebrating after getting a cheque for £1,845 from the Marlow Thames Rotary Club.

The playgroup and charity provides support to young children aged between one and four who have “significant” special needs, and their families.

Marlow Thames Rotary president John Prout said the playgroup had a “special place in our hearts”.

He said: “The playgroup is another beneficiary of Rotary fund raising events such as the Cookham Regatta and the Marlow Santa’s Fun Run. 

“When people attend these family events it is important for them to know that the proceeds go to many deserving causes – and this playgroup has a special place in our hearts. 

“The work done here really is quite extraordinary.”

Mr Prout presented the cheque to playgroup leader Jane Gibbons at the playgroup’s Christmas party, just before the school Christmas break.

Cath Austin, a group trustee, said: “This cheque makes a huge difference to us, and is totally unexpected. 

“The support given by rotary clubs in the area has been outstanding, and we are so grateful for their help. 

“We work very hard to raise the funds needed to run this playgroup, and the very varied needs of the children demands high levels of expert staff support.”