MEN in Hartlepool are being challenged to reveal their caring side, by carving out a career in childcare.

Hartlepool's Early Years partnership is aiming to boost the ranks of the town's child carers, and is hoping to recruit more men.

It is also hoped that other groups that are under-represented in the profession will consider a career in childcare, including the over-40s, members of ethnic minorities and disabled people.

Alex Duffield, a 33-year-old who works at an after-school club for youngsters, and is also a classroom assistant, believes that more men should follow his example.

He said yesterday: "My first experience of childcare was at a summer camp in America and my interest has developed from there.

"I find my career particularly rewarding and would certainly recommend it."

Hartlepool Borough Council childcare officers are aiming to create more than 500 out-of-school childcare places over the next two-and-a-half years, and have plans to develop weekend and evening provision.

Margaret Hayden, childcare development officer, said yesterday: "There will clearly be a need for more carers and we are looking to recruit now to prevent a shortage of suitably-trained people.

"We are working closely with training providers to ensure that suitable courses are available."