A pre-school educational charity has celebrated its 45th anniversary.

Music and Movement was created in 1979 by Alice Emmerson and Judy Singleton in Hexham, and has been at Trinity Methodist Church Hall on Beaumont Street on Friday mornings during term time ever since.

The group provides sessions that mix contemporary and traditional live singing and music, led by Evi Horrocks and Julie Finch.

The children are taken on an imaginary train journey to a different place each week, sail on blue boats, and take part in dancing interpretations of the music.

The group also offers a social environment for coffee and playtime before or after the classes.

Several parents now attending with their youngsters were once brought to the group by their parents.

When asked how the charity has kept going for so long, teacher and pianist Julie Finch said: "I think it’s because with two leaders and live piano and percussion every week we can adapt and pace our sessions to the group.

"And there has always been a great deal of fun involved as well as learning.

"Parents tell us that the sessions really help to develop imagination, creativity and confidence in their youngsters, and helps language and movement skills and spatial awareness."

Having fun with a drum! (Image: Supplied) One dad said: "My two really enjoy ‘M&M’ as did their older brother.

"They love the songs and dances and we all look forward to Friday mornings.

"It's fun, sociable and lively!

"What's not to like?"

Another parent said her son "loves jumping and stomping about to the beat and I love the live piano music every time.

"The classes are also gently run - very well suited to pre-school children."

Classes run for 40 minutes each on Fridays at 10am and 11am for children aged one to four years during school term times.

For more information, visit their website.