A NEW nursery providing much-needed childcare in western Southampton is open for business.

Margaret Hodge, Minister for Children, Young People and Families, formally opened the Trust Taplins Childcare and Learning Centre at Western Community Hospital, Millbrook, yesterday.

The 100-place nursery will bring vital day-care places to NHS staff as well as families living in the west of Southampton.

Victoria Hussey, childcare co-ordinator for Southampton, said: "The centre offers affordable childcare for working parents and people wishing to return to work.

"Half the places are for local NHS staff and half are for residents in Millbrook and Redbridge. The aim is to help people who are already working manage and maintain a good life-work balance. We will also offer childcare outside normal working hours to support shift workers."

Places are still available at the nursery. Call Liz Allen on 023 8047 5400 ext 6004 for details.