SEVENTEEN years ago a group of mums at Yeoford decided the time had come to form an after school club, the village youth club had closed some time previously.

They called the after school club Yeo Yo’s and now, 17 years later, that group is still going very strongly, with some spaces for more young people between the ages of three years to 14.

Rose Billson has been the play leader through all that time. Among those who were involved at the beginning were Elaine Brown, Vicky Palfrey and Gillian Shepherd.

Mrs Linda Dermody was head teacher at the primary school and others who have worked with Rose have included Ann Burnett, her daughter Katie, Kathy Gleed and Emma Cochran.

Sharon Cockayne is the registered person, at work “behind the scenes”, and Lisa Matthews works alongside Rose with the children.

“We have used every room in the school,” said Rose. “We’ve had several children who came here, went on to QE and then came back here for their Duke of Edinburgh work.

“That has really been pretty wonderful, that they want to come back and work here as well,” she said.

A big cake with candles showing the figures 17 was cut and shared at the party, games enjoyed and everyone agreeing Yeo Yo’s 17th birthday had been well marked.

Anyone who would like to know more about Yeo Yo’s should please contact the school on 01363 84234.

Yeo Yo’s operates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3.30pm until 6pm.

Each week there are different activities, a healthy snack and children do not have to go to Yeoford Primary School to be able to join in.

Rose and helpers also cater for birthday parties. Taster sessions can be arranged.

A bingo evening is to be held on November 24 to raise funds for Yeo Yo’s. Held at the Community Hall, doors open at 7.30pm, eyes down at 8pm.

Sue Read