TOTS swapped lego for the real thing as they tried their hands at bricklaying.

Pre-school children at Brookvale Children’s Centre in Runcorn had fun at a family workshop. The sessions were held to celebrate an extension to the centre which will create space in the nursery for 19 extra two-year-olds.

Building contractors FT Finley gave toddlers a taste of construction.

Site manager Any Horrobin showed youngsters how to build a wall using real and foam bricks.

The children wore their own mini high-visibility jackets and were presented with special certificates.

Project manager Jon Carroll, said: “It’s always great to work on a scheme that really helps the area and something that will have a lasting legacy.

“The children were really interested and some were naturals at laying the bricks and making sure it was measured and level.

“It was lovely to see them so involved and keen to learn about construction.”

One dad said: “The builders were great in taking the time out to show the children how to lay bricks. “My son and his friends really enjoyed it.

“They all loved getting involved and learnt not only the basics of building but also the basics of teamwork in having to take turns and share with each other.”

Claire Hunter, principal manager at Brookvale Children’s Centre, said “This is an extremely exciting time for the centre, not only being able to extend the vital provision for two-year olds and giving families education and childcare they need, but also to enable the children to really feel part of the process.”

The centre, which includes a community café, soft play area, sensory room and creche, currently has limited funding support available for the early education of two-year old children. For more details, call Belinda Yen on 0151 511 7395.