Two local 'kidz fun clubs' have been rated top class for the fifth year in a row

Enterprise Childcare runs after-school sessions at both Lyle Kirk Church and Aileymill Primary and they have been presented with the Investing in Children Award.

Senior childcare worker Helen Scott says this is recognition of the good work they do at the clubs, where children play a leading role in the activities.

Helen said: "We have a children's council once a month and discuss everything the children want to do, from activities to their snack tin.

"The children also write plays and perform them.

"The adults only come in at the end to help them put the shows on.

"This award reflects that it is children-led - it's about what they want to do, and the children enjoy coming here."

The Investing in Children membership scheme celebrates examples of imaginative and inclusive practice with children and young people.

Organisations applying for it have to demonstrate dialogue with young people and children have to provide evidence.

Julianna Cockburn, children and families manager with Enterprise Childcare, said: "A member of staff from a company based down in Durham came up to consult with the children over the service.

"It is young people-focused.

"This award proves we are taking their views on board and we are listening.

"I believe with are the only ones in Inverclyde to receive the award.

"The children were very confident and had great awareness and understanding of what it was all about."

When the Tele recently visited the club we found all sorts of fun going on, with the youngsters playing with walkie talkies, enjoying cookery and crafts, building things with Lego and doing some reading.

Niamh Martin, 11, who attends St Mary's Primary, has been coming to the club since she was five.

She said: "I like it because you are able to play with your friends and I also write plays with my friend who comes here.

"It's good when you perform the play, because you know that you've written it."