CHILDREN visiting a farm-based day nursery can now enjoy a ‘mini-farm’ thanks to a £10,000 make-over.

High Bank Day Nursery in Stapleton has splashed the cash to improve its outdoor play area and introduce calves, piglets, sheep, ducks and hens to its new farm space.

Owner Lesley Thompson said: “We're delighted to have been able to create a farm area just for the children. It brings an added dimension to being a farm-based nursery and the feedback we have received from parents has been excellent.

“Even though it has been a year since we were rated outstanding by Ofsted, we were determined not to rest on our laurels and making improvements demonstrates our commitment to continually enhancing the learning experience for the children.”

Other features include a secure walkway between the playground and farm area, and hand washing facilities so they can now collect eggs laid by the hens.

The nursery is now creating a "forest school" for the youngsters.