An extension to Sunflower Nursery in Lochgelly has been completed and officially opened.

The work was carried out over the summer months and the purpose-built facility now includes a playroom and areas to allow for family support, such as a fully-equipped kitchen for promoting healthy eating and an outdoor play area.

The official opening comes after Fife Council's Executive Committee decided last week to approve recommendations to turn Sunflower Nursery into a Family Nurture Centre. This means that the facility will open all-year round from August 2016.

Grace O'Malley, Head Teacher, said: "Sunflower Nursery has been providing Early Learning and Childcare to the local community for more than 30 years, and, as a result of its growth, has been operating over two sites for the past two years.

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"In this time we've worked with partner agencies and the local community to provide what local families need. It's gone from strength to strength and the success of the family work is support for many families who were previously isolated.

"We are delighted to be opening our new extension, which will mean we can continue this work to support families in the area all under one roof. The extension offers more flexibility than ever before, with shared resources and spaces, and it really does give a sense of togetherness in a family-orientated setting."

Councillor William Campbell, Fife Early Years Ambassador, added: "This is a fantastic building at the heart of the Lochgelly community, and the added room will provide excellent early learning and childcare opportunities for years to come.

"Lochgelly Sunflower Nursery is one of three nurseries in Fife that will benefit from funding for a building extension, meaning they can adapt to more flexible early learning and childcare hours, as well as providing support for families and eligible two-year-olds."

(JP/IT)