PARENTS and carers in Hartlepool are being urged to take advantage of a childcare service.

Sure Start South, a Government-funded initiative, has been operating in Hartlepool for about two years.

The daycare service, based at the Rossmere Centre, in Rossmere Way, combines full and part-time sessions, as well as a service for pupils at Rossmere and St Teresa's primary schools.

The service is available to parents and carers from all areas of the town.

Lorraine Gate, of Sure Start South, said: "Qualified and experienced staff care for all children receiving daycare, and they work in partnership with parents and careers to ensure that a child's needs are met.

"The overall aim of the service is to provide a high standard of physical, emotional, social and intellectual care."

Ms Gate can be contacted on (01429) 292444.