A FARM-based day nursery in a Darlington village is keeping it in the family with the appointment of a new manager.

Hayley Grainger is now the new manager at High Bank Day Nursery in Stapleton after taking over from her aunt Jennifer Thompson who has moved to become manager at High Bank’s sister nursery, Little Ladybirds in Stockton.

And she will be supported in her new role by her mum Caroline, who has been made deputy manager.

Hayley, 31, has been at High Bank since 2008, initially starting as a childcare assistant in the baby room, before becoming manager of the room and rising to become Deputy Manager of High Bank for the past few years.

Hayley, who lives in Darlington and has an Early Years Foundation Degree, said: “I am delighted to have been appointed manager at High Bank.

“It is a fantastic and very unique nursery with an excellent staff team and very supportive parents who really get involved in all aspects of nursery life.”

Lesley Thompson, Owner of High Bank Day Nursery, said: “Hayley was the logical choice to replace Jennifer.

“She is highly qualified and has worked her way up, so she knows the nursery inside and out.

“It is very much a family affair for Hayley at High Bank because her Aunt Ruth also works there.”