A CHILDCARE information service has celebrated the milestone of helping 5,000 people since it was established.

Darlington's Children's Information Service (CIS), which gives advice to parents, child carers and employers, commemorated the occasion by saying it with flowers.

Victoria Read, the 5,000th person to be helped by the service, was this week presented with a bouquet and Marks and Spencer vouchers. She signed up to a 'making choices' course, giving her advice on all aspects of a job in childcare.

The CIS, which was awarded the national Matrix Quality Award for its excellent customer service earlier this month, does not endorse or recommend individual childcare providers, but gives parents the information they need to make a decision about what kind of care would suit them.

The service runs a database with information about a range of services, including schools, private day nurseries, out-of-school clubs, playgroups and holiday groups.

Since it started, the CIS has seen more childcare places become available and has been able to find a place for every child who needs it.

Staff at the service also provide help for those working in childcare or people wanting to start working with children.

It has a database of supply staff, information on vacancies, training and other issues relevant to childcare staff.

Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children's services, said: "It is great news that so many parents, carers and staff have been helped by the CIS.

"Congratulations must go to the staff who have worked so hard to make the service a success.

"I am delighted that Victoria got the advice she needed to start her career in childcare and I wish her every success in the future."