Worries spoil party at after school club

But the party, held on Saturday at Portobello Town Hall, comes as the club, for children at Towerbank Primary School, faces an uncertain future.

Pressure on accommodation at the school means it may have to find an alternative space, leading to a likely increase in costs.

Co-ordinator Joyce Turnbull said: "We have been part of the Portobello community for more than 20 years, and I've now got people who used to come to the club as kids registering their own children as members.

"What we provide has certainly become more popular over the years, as more often both parents work and they need reliable and supportive care for their kids after school finishes."

Donald McGregor, chairman of the club's parents committee, said: "We are working in partnership with the head teacher and school council to make sure that together we provide the best possible service for local families, and we need on-going recognition by the city council of our significant role in the school community."