A childcare business in Feniscowles is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a reunion party for staff, children and parents.
Live and Kicking Out of School club was founded by Fiona Wilson 20 years ago when she realised there was a demand for a childcare service in the community.
Fiona, 58, was a child minder when she opened the Live and Kicking two decades ago and is proud of how long the business has stood for.
The mum-of-two said: “I got my qualifications and got in touch with Bootstrap Enterprises, who supported me opening the local business.
"Siobhan Gannon Booth guided me through the process and she’s supported me through thick and thin, even to this day.
“We’re hosting a party because I want to be able to thank and celebrate all the hard work people have put into this business. Siobhan and Zoe Evans (director) have supported me so much and I wouldn’t have a company without those two.”
Live and Kicking looks after children aged between four and 12-years-old, providing before and after school care and holiday clubs for schools in Feniscowles.
The business is a non-for-profit organisation so relies on funding.
Fiona added: “Obviously, along with everyone else, we took a hit with Covid because we had to close for six months and we still had outgoings but we are still sustaining which is brilliant for us.
“I’m on the second generation now. The children I’m looking after are the children of those I used to care for years ago. It makes me feel like the job is worthwhile and we’re obviously doing something right.
"My staff have been my rock and I could not have got this far without them. We are the A team."
Parents have shared their praise of Fiona’s hard work and the service she offers.
One parent, Mr Richardson said: “We absolutely love Live and Kicking. We are extremely lucky to have a club like this to look after Maisy.
"There are always loads of fun things going on and they go above and beyond. Thanks very much for everything you do for us.”
Mrs Jenkinson, another pleased parent, said: “Fiona and her wonderful team nurtured him just like they do all their children.
"My son enjoys Live and Kicking so much he asks to come in the school holidays for their holiday club days even though I work term time only!
“Fiona and her team are just amazing, we would be lost without the club. From helping us with day to day wrap around care they also provide a fantastic school holiday club where they have themed days and children can dress up and get involved in all of the themed activities.
“Fiona is extremely approachable and kind, nothing is too much for her. We really feel like her and her team are like our extended family and they treat my children like their own.
“You'll struggle to find childcare that has the warm fuzzy feeling that live and kicking provides! We are so excited to celebrate 20 years of Live and Licking with Fiona and her team - we love them all!”
The Rutherford family praised Fiona saying that she and her team “are the absolute best at what they do”.
They said: “The children’s happiness is the absolute priority and they will accept nothing less!
"They have helped us mould our children into who they are today and we can’t say thank you enough.”
Former staff, children and parents are all invited to celebrate the milestone 20th anniversary of Live and Kicking.
The reunion party is from 2pm to late on Saturday, October 14, at the Feildens Arms in Feniscowles.
For more details about this celebration contact the club on 01254 202075.
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