STAFF and youngsters at a nursery in a market town are celebrating after receiving a grant of more than £4,500 for their ‘inspiration and inclusion’ project.

Bedale Under Fives received £4,641 from the National Lottery’s Big Lottery fund.

The project aims to enhance children through play - regardless of their sex, race, ability or background.

As Bedale’s only community playgroup, the award has ensured that it will now be able to provide affordable sessions that embrace learning for all children, including those with special needs and disabilities.

The project will focus on four areas:

· Introducing equipment to suit and assist children with disabilities;

· Purchasing multi-cultural learning aids and books;

· Focusing on sessions and toys that aid the different learning styles of children, in particular boys;

· Improving facilities by purchasing new toys and resources that will benefit all children.

Michelle Sands, chairwoman of the nursery’s committee, said: "I am thrilled that the National Lottery has chosen to award this grant.

"It gives us the ability to really make our playgroup stand out - with amazing facilities, knowledgeable staff and a fresh look at modern learning.

"We can’t wait to put all of our ideas into practice and we would urge parents to come and see what we are doing."

Located on the first floor of Bedale Hall, the nursery aims to provide a caring, homely environment for children from the age of two.

All day sessions cost £12, while morning and afternoon sessions are £6.

For more information, call 01677-427880, email bedaleunder5s@btconnect.com or visit bedaleunderfives.com