TEARFUL toddlers and their parents were left in shock when more than half the staff of a Hampshire nursery walked out in a dispute over working conditions.

But just 18 months later, under new management, following an extensive refurbishment, and with a new name, Hopscotch Day Nursery is looking to the future.

New manager Katiee Parsons is confident that they will be able to turnaround the failing nursery.

The Titchfield nursery, formerly Poppins Early Learning Centre, in Little Abshot Road, hit the headlines in November, 2006, when 11 members of staff quit their jobs over complaints about their conditions and treatment at work.

Cover staff were drafted in but parents backed the staff action, while Ofsted inspectors were called in to investigate.

But now under a new operator Hopscotch, and having successfully completed much-needed refurbishment, Hopscotch Day Nursery is facing a bright future.

The new-look site now has an upstairs which will be dedicated to the pre-school children, while the older children can enjoy access to the garden downstairs.

Already the number of children enrolling are up and it is hoped that numerous open days will soon see the nursery at full capacity, looking after 70 children aged from three months to five years.

Manager Katiee said: "We are open, the refurbish is finished and we are ready to move onward and upward. Everyone has put in so much effort and hard work to make this place a success and all the staff have been totally committed throughout the process.

"We are all so excited about the future of this place. The surroundings are beautiful, the nursery is amazing and it's a pleasure to work here."

Open days are being held on May 17, June 14 and July 19, from 10am to 2pm.