WINDMILL Hill pre-schoolers and staff joined millions worldwide in celebrating the Hindu festival of Diwali with an explosion of colour and creativity.

Staff wearing traditional costumes at the day nursery in Windmill Business Park have been introducing children to the culture, traditions and food associated with the festival.

Manager Lora Worthington said: "The children love an occasion and Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is always popular.

"We have all been dancing to traditional music and the children have made little Diva tea-light holders so they can carry on the fun at home."

Resident expert Jasbir Mander, room leader for the two-to-three year olds, supplied all the saris and her vegetable samosas for children to taste, and parents supplied white T shirts for the preschool room to decorate with powder paint.

Staff also provided poppadoms and chapattis, with a selection of chutney and sauces, for the children to try and there has been lots of discussion about what the festival means to millions of Hindus worldwide.

Lora added: “This festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance which is a powerful message to give the very young.

"We mark a range of different cultural and religious events throughout the year to give children a broad understanding of the world around them and celebrate the diversity within our local community."