PIPPINS Pre-School and Nursery in Market Street, Crediton had a special guest recently when its children welcomed the town’s Member of Parliament Mel Stride for a visit.

Acting Manager Sharleen Treen and Acting Deputy Manager Michelle Dymond introduced Mel to some of the children and talked about some of the pressures that childcare providers are facing, such as staff recruitment and the impact of National Living Wage increases.

Speaking after his visit Mel said: “Our nurseries, pre-schools and childminders have been among the unsung heroes of the pandemic.

"They played a vital role in looking after vulnerable children and the children of key workers during our national lockdowns and continue to deal with the anxiety and logistical difficulties of regular contact with a lot of young children where social distancing simply isn’t possible.

"Their efforts have enabled families to get back to work and helped to get our economy moving again.”

Sharleen added: “We were delighted to meet Mel and show him our new set up in Market Square. It was useful to give him some direct feedback on some of the challenges that our sector faces and he even enjoyed a little play time with some of our children.”

For more information about Pippins Pre-School and Nursery visit: www.pippinspre-school.co.uk .