THERESA MAY opened Wargrave Pre-School on Saturday following refurbishment.
The Home Secretary, who is MP for Maidenhead, talked to children and parents at the celebration tea party.
She also added to a display of the childen’s art by leaving a blue handprint on the wall, which she signed.
Mrs May praised the modernisation work, which was completed in September and includes a new kitchen, baby-changing facilities and carpets as well as redecoration.
The outdoor area has also been extended and new play equipment installed.
Mrs May said: “Getting early years provision right is absolutely crucial because if children get a good start then it does well for them during the rest of their education.
“It’s a great environment that they now have and it will really benefit the children. It’s good to see the community, local businesses and the pre-school coming together to do something which rightly lies at the heart of the village.”
The pre-school committee decided about a year ago that the building, which is more than 25 years old, needed a facelift and raised money for the project from local businesses and residents.
Penny Simmons, who chairs the committee, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to see the new building and the children enjoying it. It has made a huge difference.”
Treasurer David Jeary said the pre-school wanted to improve the inside and outside space as well as replace toys and equipment.
He added: “We had a few very large donations from members of the community, which were much appreciated. Now we’ve got a lovely setting and it gives us more opportunities.”
The work was carried out by Millgate Homes, of Ruscombe.
Managing director David Simpson said that when he first visited the site in January his heart sank as he realised how much work was needed.
“It was a freezing cold day and it was freezing in the building but I felt that we needed to do something,” he said.
“It has been a great project to be involved in and when I saw the finished building I was really proud that we were given the opportunity.”
Other handprints were left by Joe Hemani, Chelsea FC vice-president, who lives in Wargrave, donor Jill Hunt and Mr Simpson.
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