CHILDREN at a Burnley nursery had visit from Neddy the oral health puppet to mark National Smile Week.

Le Monde Petit Day Nursery has teamed up with East Lancashire Community Dental Services to help teach youngsters the importance of looking after their teeth.

The children had the chance to help brush Neddy's teeth when he dropped in to the Bank Parade nursery.

There will also be a colouring competition and a poster display will help parents find out more about dental health and the role nutrition plays.

Toni Ashworth, oral health promoter, said: "Neddy is a very popular way of helping young children learn about looking after their teeth.

"The main messages we teach the children are the importance of brushing with family fluoride toothpaste twice a day, keeping sugary foods and drinks to meal times, choosing sugar free snacks and drinks between meals, and visiting the dentist regularly to help their teeth stay healthy."

Nursery owner, Peter Hindle, added: "We already take part in the national Smiling for Life programme and are keenly aware of the role that nutrition plays in dental health and this is reflected in our healthy menus.

"However, we wanted to take this a step further and give the children hands on fun that will also help develop their awareness about the value of regular tooth brushing. Neddy seemed the ideal way."