A £750,000 BID by a new nursery school to become an "early excellence centre" has been backed by Burnley MP Peter Pike.

The local MP pledged his backing when he attended the official opening of the new Taywood Nursery School.

One outcome of the Burnley primary review of schools was the amalgamation of Howard Street and Accrington Road nursery schools and the re-opening of the new amalgamated school on the Accrington Road site.

The decision of the Schools Organisation Committee to use the large Accrington Road site also means the continuing successful partnership between the school and the Elm Tree Family Support service, helping the community of South West Burnley.

Accrington Road nursery was the fifth to be opened in the country and was due to celebrate its 70th anniversary in February next year.

Headteacher Christine Lawless said: "We are determined to celebrate the presence of a nursery school on the site next February even if the name has changed.

"A big party is being organised and we are hoping to meet lots of past pupils."

Taywood nursery is one of only two in Lancashire to submit a second "expression of interest" to become an Early Excellence Centre.

Only one will be successful in gaining the funding to extend the building and services.

Christine said: "We have had lots of endorsements and letters of support.

"Now we are keeping our fingers crossed that all our joint efforts will be rewarded. I feel we need to sing the praises of all the nursery schools in the town and in doing so help Burnley to feel proud of its heritage."

Mr Pike told the gathering that the bid had his full support.

The children sang nursery rhymes and songs to entertain the guests including Mr Pike, governors, local councillors and representatives from NCH Action for Children and the Elm Tree Family Support Service and a new sign was unveiled.

A fireworks party is planned for Monday with a pie and peas supper and celebration cake for the parents and children.