The group marked the special milestone with a party at the North Parish Church Hall, Renfield Street, Renfrew where the children meet on Wednesday mornings.

The children enjoyed party games, singing, dancing, a buffet and an impressive 20 year celebration cake.

Each child received a balloon, an inscribed piggy bank and a 20th anniversary pen for their family.

The church minister, Lorna Hood, popped in to join the children and celebrate the group’s success.

The ABC group consists of 12 childminders, five of whom are founding members: Patricia Sweeney, Pauline Nobes, Hilda McKenzie, Helen Wardrop and Marie Norrie.

Pauline Nobes said: “We were all delighted that three retired founding members were able to join us in our celebration.

“20 years ago the Renfrew group was formed and they met up every Monday and Thursday morning in the Old Parish Church hall in Glebe Street, Renfrew.

“When the church closed in October 2012 the playgroup moved to the North Parish Church and now hold a weekly playgroup session every Wednesday morning.” Over the last 20 years the childminders have involved the children and their families in many fundraising ventures including an annual sponsored ‘Wellie Waddle’ in Barshaw Park, Paisley.

This year and last the children chose to raise funds for local charity, The Brightest Star charity and in previous years Barnardos and The Scottish Cot Death Trust were choosen.

Pauline added: “Childminders are professional childcarers, registered with the Care Inspectorate, who work from their own homes.

“They offer high quality care in a home from home environment where children benefit from a low adult-to-child ratio and a variety of important developmental experiences.” Contact details of the group’s vacancy secretary Patricia Sweeney are on the website www.abcrenfrewchildminders.com