NURSERIES across Bolton have been given special certificates that pay tribute to their hard work.

Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Linda Thomas, has given out more than 500 Certificates of Recognition to volunteers, community groups, and individuals for going the extra mile during the pandemic.

Almost a fifth have gone to childminders and nurseries across the borough, who have helped families and communities since March.

Cllr Thomas said: “I am thrilled to give the award to those providers which stayed open throughout lockdown, helping our front-line workers to be able to work, knowing their children are safe.”

Wells House Kindergarten in Stoneclough was recently a finalist in the Best Independent Nursery in the UK and winner of the Parents Communication Award.

Owner Tina Knight said she was thrilled to be recognised for their hard work, and will be displaying the certificate for everyone to see.

Pamela Houghton from High Meadows Day Nursery praised her staff for their hard work, and thanked the mayor for recognising their tireless role.

Cllr Thomas added: “You cannot put a price on our children’s welfare and education.

“We have so much to thank these hard-working staff for – they have worked tirelessly across the borough despite lockdown.

“I am thrilled to recognise their work, and this is a small way of saying thank you, not just from me, but from the people of Bolton.”