AN organic and environmentally friendly ethos for life formed the basis for a new approach to childcare in York for Vanessa Warn.

The mother of three launched Little Green Rascals Organic Day Nursery in 2009 in a bid to offer what she describes as "wholly organic childcare operated under an ethical philosophy".

Last year the business opened a second site, offering services from the previous Welcome to Yorkshire head office in Tadcaster Road, as well as its original base in Elvington Lane.

Little Green Rascals now caters for 100 children a day, with 300 families on its register, and is entering the Family Business of the Year category, while Mrs Warn bids for Business Personality of the Year title.

Mrs Warn said: "Both nurseries have a strong environmental focus, encouraging their children and families to consider their impact of their actions on the wider environment.

"All food is organically sourced, some of which is grown and tended to by the children themselves, a concept that is unique to nursery settings in the north of England.

"The organic ethos is embedded into the children’s daily routines from as young at three months where, they too, visit the gardens on a daily basis."

Both nurseries hold the Gold Standard Award from the Soil Association.

The staff team of more than 100 consist of qualified teachers, Early Years Professionals, graduates of numerous interests and apprentices alike.