A NEW nursery is set to open in Eastleigh, creating up to 15 new jobs.

First Friends will officially open its doors to the community on June 16.

The new nursery will be based in Grantham Road, in the former Scout building.

It will welcome children from three months to five years old.

Manager Helen Goodall said: "We want to deliver high quality care and work on the uniqueness of each child. We want to really know our children and become part of the community. We are not part of a big chain and that's important for us."

Helen, from Eastleigh, said the food will be cooked on site and children will also benefit from a garden and a play area.

"We want to be a space for the community,"she added.

The opening of the new pre-school will also boost the local economy, creating new jobs.

"At the moment it will create four jobs but as the numbers are growing we will employ more people, up to 15,"Helen said.

Helen, who previously worked as a teacher, said to be excited about this new experience.

"I love being with the children, it's an absolute privilege to work with them and see the world through their eyes,"she said.

The new nursery is owned by Louise Hayes who also runs nurseries in Basingstoke and Salisbury.

The community is now invited to the official opening of the nursery in Eastleigh set to take place on June 16 from 11am to 12 pm.