YOUNG mums in deprived areas of East Lancashire who want to get back to work are set to benefit as part of a £5million boost to nursery education across the county.

Lancashire County Council's Neighbourhood Nurseries Initiative has won massive Government funding so it can provide quality, affordable childcare places in communities where there are currently few facilities, a spokesman said.

Badly-off areas in Hyndburn, Pendle, Rossendale and Burnley -- based on social deprivation indicators -- will be targeted.

The project will be managed by Lancashire's Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership based at County Hall in Preston.

County Councillor Alan Whittaker, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People, said: "The extra funding to improve access to nursery provision in these areas is enthusiastically welcomed. It will be used to help close the gap between these areas and the number of places available elsewhere.

"The Neighbourhood Nursery Initiative will deliver integrated full day care for children from nought to five years, enabling parents to access employment opportunities and give our youngsters the best start in life.

"And if anyone thinks they have the facilities or time to give to this initiative, we'd love to hear from them. It's a fantastic project to get involved with."

Anyone interested in taking part can attend a conference on September 25 from 7pm to 9pm at the Harris Park Conference Centre, Garstang Road, Preston.

For more information, contact Karen Littlefair, Business and Financial Support Officer, on 01772 261620 or e-mail karen.littlefair@ed.lancscc.gov.uk.

Blackburn with Darwen Council introduced five new neighbourhood nurseries early in the summer, providing 240 extra places in deprived areas.