A BUSINESS park in Darlington is preparing to hear the patter of tiny feet when its youngest occupiers move in to a new nursery next month.

Situated in the former medical centre for the Patons and Baldwins Wool Factory, Little Lingfields, in Lingfield Point, opens during the first weekend of next month, to allow parents and children to meet staff ahead of the official opening on September 3.

The nursery will cater for up to 43 children, with rooms for babies, toddlers and pre-school youngsters.

Facilities for older children include sand and water play, a dressing-up area, educational computer programmes, books and toys.

Each section of the nursery also has a quiet room, to allow children to rest.

The nursery includes a soft-play and ball-pool area, decorated with an under-water theme, and a secure landscaped garden with toys for each age range.

It will be run by Nicola McGee, a registered nurse who specialises in caring for children, with a team of three qualified early-years practitioners.

Ms McGee said: "Little Lingfields will provide expert child-care in a safe and stimulating environment, with each member of staff committed to creating a relaxed and happy home-from-home for the children."

The nursery will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, September 1 and 2, between 11am and 3pm.

Normal nursery opening hours will be Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 6pm. For more information, contact Ms McGee on 01325-354930 or visit the website www.littlelingfields.co.uk