'We're 79 and 83 but playgroup keeps us young at heart'

Almost 25 years ago, friends Barbara Smith and Joyce O'Connell were determined to save a local playgroup from closure when its organiser decided to step down.

Since taking over the helm, the pair say Holy Trinity playgroup in Formby has saved them in many ways, helping them both navigate their own personal grief.

"Everybody just cared so much and it helped," said 83-year-old Joyce, who has lost her husband and son since taking over the group.

Barbara added: "We've ended up being such good friends.

"We've supported each other with the loss of our husbands."

The playgroup runs from 09:15 to 11:15 every Monday morning during term time at St Michael's and All Angels parish hall.

Barbara was no stranger to the playgroup, bringing her own children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews to the sessions.

So when the group was under threat of closure, she turned to Joyce for help to ensure future generations could use the service.

"I thought if Joyce will help me, we'll do it together," said Barbara, who has seven grandchildren.

"Joyce said 'yes' and that was it."

Annemarie Fazal, who regularly attends the sessions, said: "They're just amazing.

"Look at what they do, all the hard work.

"Every weekend they come in, set it up, and it's just fantastic.

"This is what we need in our community…and to be in your 80s and doing this is just amazing."

Nothing can keep the pair away - even when Barbara broke her arm in two places recently.

"It keeps you young," said Joyce, who has seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

"We just love doing it."

Jane Gallagher, Joyce's daughter, added: "It's almost like when they retired they got a second lease of life in the voluntary sector, 25 years still going strong.

"They might be the first centenarians running a toddler group."

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