HUNDREDS of busy little bees were buzzing around three nurseries in Swindon yesterday as Busy Bees celebrated its 30th birthday.

The company, which has more than 200 nurseries around the country, also hoped to make the World Guiness Book Of Records for the greatest number of people dressed up as bees.

At centres in St Andrews Ridge, Broome Manor and Peatmoor, children got involved with the fun and enjoyed a special birthday tea, including lots of birthday cake.

They also enjoyed a range of bee-themed activities.

Rachael Allen, an assistant room manager at the nursery in St Andrew’s Ridge, said: “We had 37 bees dress up and we had a birthday party tea.

“All the children loved it. All the staff dressed up too.

“We already had the world record so we decided to dress up again and try to beat it and we just wanted to make it a bit more fun for the children.”

Youngsters enjoyed ham and cheese sandwiches, salad, sausage rolls, and of course birthday cake and enjoyed a variety of games.

In Broome Manor, youngsters made the most of the day by using black and yellow water and black and yellow playdough as part of their messy play.

They also had a go at painting bees and making accessories for their bee costumes and danced along to a bee and bug themed musical event, where the children enjoyed playing with bubbles.

Rachel Payne, the manager of the nursery, said: “It’s been better than we could possibly have imagined.

“A very great percentage of the children took part in the day and dressed up and many parents came along as well.

“Many people dressed up as a bee and we had a photo shoot in the morning which will go up to head office and then be sent on to the Guiness Book Of Records.

“It was a huge success and I’m sure we have done enough to achieve the world record.”

Photos from all over the country of the Busy Bees nursery dress up as a bee day will be submitted to the head quarters by the end of November.

After that they will be used by the Guiness Book Of Records to judge whether a record has been made.

To find out more about Busy Bees visit www.busybeeschildcare.co.uk or call 01543 678450.