A popular playgroup has celebrated 50 years caring for local children while paying tribute to one of its much-loved former leaders.

The Brent Playgroup in St Vincents Road, Dartford marked its golden anniversary with a cake and tea party.

Children were invited along to join in the celebratory bash and decorate different art works to mark the occasion.

A tree was also planted outside in tribute to Jean Chalkley, from Dartford, who passed away on Christmas Eve, aged 79, after a year-long battle with cancer.

The mum-of-three ran the popular Brent Playgroup in St Vincents Road for more than 30 years.

New playgroup leader Kirsty Barden was joined by Jean's husband Robert and his two daughters Sarella and Hanah to unveil a plaque.

Jean's role brought much joy to the local community with the group lovingly dubbed as “Jean’s Playgroup”.

Speaking in February, daughter Sarella said her mum was very kind and level-headed and was someone who gave "fantastic, sensible advice".

She said: "She was an amazing mum who was always there for us and you could go to her with anything.

"Just everything you could ever want or need from a mum."