A BOOST in funding has enabled a West Devon pre-school to open a new out of school club for two to eight year olds.

Tavistock Community Pre-school has received funding from the Big Lottery's 'Awards for All' scheme to go towards the club for children of busy working parents and those who just need child care.

The pre-school, sited within the Alexander Centre in Plymouth Road, receives children at 8am where they are given a healthy breakfast.

The pre-school children stay at the centre, while the primary school children are walked to school.

In the afternoon the school children are walked from their primary school back to the pre-school where they are offered a snack, have a chance to play or sit in the quiet area for those who get tired.

Parents can collect their children anytime up to 6pm and will only be charged for the hours needed.

Mary Bradford, manager at the pre-school, said: 'Walking the children to school is a good thing as the children will learn how to use a pavement safely, learn to respect traffic, stranger awareness, be aware of the seasons, and of course exercise is good!

'We feed the ducks, while returning from school and, if wanted by the children, will play in the park.'

Mary is also confident, gaining 'Good in all aspects' in a recent OFSTED inspection, that this new venture compliments both the pre-school and holiday club, offering full time child care in a caring and fun manner that young children deserve.

While at the pre-school, the children enjoy a stimulating outside safe play area and a large fun indoor area with qualified and CRB checked staff.

Tavistock Community Pre-school is limiting the available places to 10, to enable the children to enjoy a homely atmosphere and respecting the fact that younger children need more attention, especially if they are starting school.

Staff at the pre-school feel they are offering a much needed service to Tavistock and surrounding areas, as the Out of School Club combined with the Holiday Club will enable parents to fulfil work commitments.

For more information call the pre-school on 01822 612335.