TODDLERS and staff from a nursery have met the Queen at a party to celebrate her 80th birthday.

Three pre-school children and three staff from the Stepping Stones Nursery in Weston were guests at the party held for individuals and businesses representing the Duchy of Lancaster.

Stepping Stones was selected to attend as it illustrated part of the diverse nature of businesses run from Duchy properties.

Held in a marquee at Whitewell, each business was given the chance of a private conversation with the royal couple.

The three very excited children bowed and curtsied as they presented Her Majesty with birthday cards made with the help of all the youngsters at the nursery back home.

The nursery, which opened three years ago, has expanded over the years to provide breakfast, after-school and holiday clubs.

Co-founder Maria Bradbury explained to the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh how the business grew in a short space of time from the initial six staff and five children.

She said: "I believe the reason we have grown so quickly is two-fold.

"Firstly we are part of a growing community - over 400 houses have been built near the nursery in the last five years and secondly, we have a fabulous building which provides a bright, homely environment with acres of hard and soft play area all around it."

Speaking of the royal party, she added: "We were absolutely delighted to have been chosen to go to it - it was an amazing experience.

"The children were fantastic, for them and their parents I'm sure it was a day they will never forget."