A NEW £238,000 nursery for Winchester youngsters has officially opened.

Henry's kindergarten, at Henry Beaufort School in Harestock, has places for 46 youngsters and was built as part of a larger scheme of work at the school.

This included the development of a new dining room and kitchens, and an extension to the community building. Technology rooms were also refurbished and the disused caretaker's bungalow has been converted into a computer-training suite.

The nursery, designed by county council architects, was built to meet increased demand for childcare from local people and public sector workers in Winchester.

It has three nursery rooms to cater for children aged up to five years old, sleep rooms, an office and an outdoor play area.

County councillor Anna McNair Scott declared the nursery officially open at a special ceremony.