A PLAYGROUP has finally got a new home, after two years of coping with temporary accommodation.
Flockton First Steps - formerly Flockton Playgroup - had its new premises officially opened on Thursday.
The new building, on land owned by the Wakefield Diocese near the village's C of E First School, was opened by the Archdeacon of Halifax, the Rev Robert Freeman.
The opening marked the end of a chapter of uncertainty in the group's 25-year history.
For 23 years, the playgroup met above Flockton Working Men's Club.
But two years ago, an Ofsted inspection said this arrangement did not comply with health and safety rules.
The playgroup voluntarily closed for a month before setting up temporarily in the hall of the First School.
But sharing the premises meant the playgroup could only operate for two-hour sessions two days a week.
A committee including First School staff, Flockton and Emley curate the Rev Eddie Wynn and playgroup manager Nicola Brook was set up to raise cash for new premises.
The committee raised £60,000 through fundraising events and sponsorship from the Countryside Agency, Coalfields Regeneration Trust, Kirklees Early Years Service, the Local Network Fund, Kirkburton Area Committee and clothing firm Bon Marché.
The cash allowed the new building to be created.
Wyn Dobson, a committee member and former playgroup secretary, said: "It was a difficult time, but Nicola Brook and Jane Clay held the group together.
"It has taken use two years, but we have finally made it.
"We'd like to thank everyone for their hard work and the sponsors."
There are places for 24 children aged 30 months to four and-a-half.
Sessions run from 9am to 11am and 11am to 1pm, five days a week.
There are plans to introduce afternoon sessions if demand is high enough.
For more information, ring playgroup secretary Janet Crowther on 01924 849374.
