A MOTHER who decided, with a friend, to buy and run a children's nursery after giving birth is celebrating its success.

Adele Jaab, 35, took over the Secret Garden Day Nursery, in Haughton Green, Darlington, last month, less than a year after giving birth to her son, Oliver.

Having worked with children in the National Health Service, in social services and in adult education, Mrs Jaab, from Darlington, opted for a change of direction.

"I didn't really want to go back to work after having Oliver ten months ago, but when I saw the nursery up for sale I had an idea," she said.

Mrs Jaab went into partnership with her friend, mother-of-two Hilary Dent-Hindmarch, 36, to buy and manage the nursery, which takes youngsters aged from six weeks to five years.

Following previous extension work, Darlington Borough Council has recently approved an increase in the number of places it can offer from 26 to 40.

Mrs Jabb said: "We have kept on all the staff that were there before because it is important that the children have continuity, and they have all been wonderful during the transition.

"We have made a few changes and the children are happy - especially little Oliver."

The nursery has places available and anyone interested in speaking to Mrs Jaab can contact her on (01325) 464443.