A BRAND new centre for children will be officially opened in Colne today.

The £1.25 million facility targeted at families and young children includes ante-natal clinics, early years health and education provision, and will house the town's health visiting team.

Centre Manager Janet Davies, who also manages the new children's centres in Nelson and Brierfield, says: "The aim is to make a difference to the lives of families locally.

"Over time, this type of facility can make an enormous difference in people's quality of life, and in helping them to take healthier options to look after their own welfare.

"We run a whole range of services targeted at those families with young children under five years old.

"It's a wonderful purpose-built building and should offer a focal point for the local community to use."

The building is jointly funded by Sure Start Capital Funding, the Single Regeneration Budget through Pendle Partnership and East Lancashire PCT.