Tiggers Playgroup is held at the Parish Room in Balcombe and recently refurbished one half of the outside area with paving slabs to make an all-year-round play space.

Now staff, parents and volunteers are focusing on the muddy other half to make it a stimulating area for the pre-school children.

On Sunday, April 6, staff and parents are staging a fundraising event to coincide with the Grand National. Instead of Aintree the turf will be in Balcombe recreation ground with riders under starter's orders from midday.

Racing will be open to all ages with a course of six 'jumps' inspired by the most famous steeplechase of all. Competitors will be asked to get sponsorship and dress up if they want as jockeys or horses with prizes for best silks or equine turnout.

Entry and sponsorship forms are available from Tiggers and Threads in Balcombe. Deadline for entry to the races is April 1.