STAFF at a pre-school have spoken of their delighted after it was praised by education watchdog Ofsted.

Green Man Pre-School, which is based in a hall at Leytonstone Methodist Church in Lister Road, was created from scratch in 2008 and was initially only rated 'satisfactory'.

But after expanding its site, developing an outdoor play area and making other improvements, Oftsed has now rated it 'good' following a recent inspection.

It described the pre-school as having "a stimulating and well resourced environment", while also praising the knowledge and caring nature of staff.

Inspectors also praised its management, along with the behaviour and the progress made by children at Green Man.

However they said the involvement of parents could be improved.

Jane Harris, pre-school leader, said: "we have worked really hard over the last three years and are all thrilled to now be rated a 'good' pre-school.

"We have just increased our hours, so can now provide afternoon sessional care as well as morning sessions.

"We also offer a lunch club, and are able to now offer free places for eligible two-year-olds as per the new government initiative."