FERRYHILL Leisure Centre Playgroup is celebrating the start of work on its new home.

The playgroup has the use of a leisure centre room but has always wanted an area of its own, and the development takes it a step closer to realising that dream.

Work on the project began last month and playgroup leader Joanne Stubbs and Derek Snowball, manager of the leisure centre, are overseeing the construction.

Miss Stubbs said: "We are aiming to achieve Nursery Education Standards, and the move will help us."

The venture has been made possible with an investment of £60,000 by Sedgefield Borough Council and Sure Start.

Mr Snowball said: "I am delighted that Ferryhill Leisure Centre can provide a quality service for families with young children helping to fill a gap in the provision for local people."