A Dorset nursery group is celebrating 20 years in business by treating its staff to a London theatre visit followed by a slap-up dinner.

Cuddles was founded in 1999 by mum Linda Duly.

Its first day nursery started in Canford Heath in a small building called The Pavilion.

Based across the road from the current Canford Heath nursery in Learoyd Road, Cuddles was there for two years until the current site became available.

In 2003, Linda was awarded the tender for Rossmore and Cuddles Parkstone was born.

Eleven years later Linda and her team opened the third Cuddles at Poole Stadium. All three have been given an ‘Outstanding’ rating by Ofsted.

Today she employs more than 110 members of staff including many who have been with the nursery group for several years.

The nursery group continues to grow with vacancies currently available for Level 3 nursery practitioners working with all age groups all year-round.

Last month more than 350 children and 75 staff celebrated the 20th anniversary across all three nurseries.

The children enjoyed a day of party games, balloons, party food and cake.

Later this year Linda has arranged for all Cuddles employees to join her and the rest of the team in a 20th birthday celebration in London.

They will be treated to a performance of the hit West End musical Wicked followed by a celebratory dinner.