A NURSERY nurse has won a national accolade for her work in setting up a specialist baby unit at a Foulridge nursery.

Tracey Smith, of Dudley Street, Colne, won runner-up prize in the final of the Prima Baby Nursery Worker of the Year, part of the Kids' Clubs Network Excellence in Childcare Awards 2003.

Tracey, 28, who has worked at Lake View Children's Nursery, Skipton New Road, for three years, was presented her prize at a glittering ceremony at Shakespeare's Globe in London.

She was picked from thousands of entrants as her work at the nursery over the years has proved invaluable to children, staff and parents.

Organised by national charity Kids' Clubs Network and with overall sponsorship from Sure Start, the Excellence in Childcare Awards offer the chance to reward and recognise the work carried out in the childcare industry.

The panel chose Tracey to go through to the finals because of her dedicated, caring nature and genuine love for all the children in her care.

Tracey said: "I told the panel about the time when a little boy at the nursery had a fit, I was the one who called for the ambulance and informed his parents. It wasn't something I would like to deal with every day but I think I handled the situation well."

She added: "I set up the baby unit, which I now run, and is a real success. The baby unit means we can take children from three months to four years which allows parents the choice of going back to work if they wish."

As part of her prize, the NNEB qualified nursery nurse won a two night break for two at a choice of Purdew Group Health Spas.

Anne Longfield, chief executive of Kids' Clubs Network said: "Tracey is an exceptionally dedicated and professional childcarer who deserves the reward and recognition she has received. Well done Tracey."

Tracey said: "I am overjoyed to have been considered for this year's award. I really wasn't expecting it, it came as a complete surprise. I was the only person from Lancashire in the finals which was a huge achievement."