A scheme aimed at giving under-fours the best start in life has scooped £1.68m in Government funding.

Sure Start Meden Valley will get the money over the next three years to help it expand. Currently, 818 Nottinghamshire children and their families in Mansfield Woodhouse, Warsop and Spion Kop use the scheme.

Project leaders have been working hard over the last six months to find out what new services are needed in the area.

The funding means all children will have access to play and learning opportunities, creche and nursery facilities, outdoor play areas, a toy library and a home safety equipment loan scheme.

Trained staff will also provide advice on parenting skills, child health, ante-natal care and breast feeding for parents.

Programme manager Jude Burgess said: "By bringing together everyone who works with children in the Meden Valley area and working so closely with parents and the wider community, we can really make a difference."

For more details, call 01623 819910.