A STOCKTON nursery is receiving a new lease of life after being bought by a leading national group.

The Early Years Centre, in Durham Road, Stockton, has become part of the Just Learning chain of nurseries.

The group also has nurseries in Darlington and Ingleby Barwick.

After refurbishment, the nursery will reopen in August.

Just Learning opened its first nursery in Darlington in 1996. The chain now operates 26 throughout the country, caring for more than 2,500 babies and children, with more nurseries under development.

As well as traditional learning through play, children are taught social skills to equip them for the future.