A PRESCHOOL has undergone a refurbishment and is inviting parents and children to explore today.

Eastbourne Preschool, based within Eastbourne Sports Complex on Bourne Avenue, Darlington, has carried out the work to prepare for the new 30-hour funded childcare scheme for working parents, which launches in the town in September this year.

The nursery will be open from 10am to 2pm today and again on July 8.

Manager Gail Wilkinson said: “We moved into our new space two weeks ago, and the children are loving it. We have already seen an increase in some of the children’s self-care skills, which has built their confidence, in the short time we have been in this new room.

“Our free-flow access to the garden space has been one of best parts of the development. Children spend much of day outside making mud pies, potions, obstacle courses & water courses – their imaginations have no limits when outside.”

Marion Thomas, one of the original founders of Eastbourne Playgroup in Eastbourne Methodist Church over 40 years ago, will be coming to the open day today.

The preschool has evolved from the original Mother & Toddler group in the church to the nursery it is today.

The connection to Mrs Thomas was only discovered after her son, Sean Thomas, facilities support manager at Darlington Borough Council, helped in the move to the new home at Eastbourne Sport Complex three years ago when the church closed.

Staff will be on hand throughout the day to answer questions & talk to parents regarding the funding schemes available.