NELSON'S Sure Start drop-in centre in Charles Street was praised during a visit to Pendle by the county's Cabinet Member for Education and Young People, County Councillor Alan Whittaker.

The council house in the middle of a housing estate has been converted, with the help of the Probation Service, in to a play environment for young children .

There is also a suite of rooms upstairs where parents can meet, talk and take part in training activities.

Sure Start works with parents and toddlers to promote their physical, intellectual, social and emotional well being to ensure they are ready to thrive when they start school.

Coun Whittaker said: "This is an excellent example of a partnership between Lancashire County Council, the borough council, parents, and other local organisations to deliver real benefits to families in Nelson."

He also visited Walton Lane Nursery School, where he had the opportunity to congratulate headteacher Audrey Wilson and her staff for their recent achievements in being awarded Beacon Status earlier this summer.

Coun Whittaker said: "Walton Lane is a shining example of a well run nursery school which gives all of its pupils the best possible start to their education.

"Working in partnership with Townhouse school, the schools are developing ambitious plans for the future of their shared site which I will be following closely."