HELPING a nurse to open a new day nursery near Selby proved to be child's play for business advisers from Business Link York and North Yorkshire.

The new nursery at Great Heck is the brainchild of Gail Hope, who has lived in the village since 1992 and its opening marks the culmination of three years of planning.

Mrs Hope and her husband, Colin, received on-going assistance to launch the venture from York, Selby and Malton Business Advice Centre, which provides young and start-up businesses with access to the full range of Business Link York and North Yorkshire services.

The nursery has five staff and can accommodate 21 children up to the age of eight. Its opening hours are from 7.30am to 6.30pm, offering working parents greater flexibility than most of its competitors.

Norman Whyte, chief executive of the centre, and his colleagues helped Mrs Hope to develop a business plan in order to raise finance and assisted her with various other key aspects, such as staff pay structures.

Mrs Hope said: "I identified some time ago that there was a big demand for a quality childcare facility around Selby and particularly one with extended opening hours.

"It was hard work raising the finance but I am very grateful to Norman Whyte at York, Selby & Malton Business Advice Centre for all his help. His financial expertise was crucial to us and he continues to provide support when we need it on a number of business matters." Mr Whyte said: "I am delighted that we have been able to offer Gail all the advice and experience that we have built up over the years in helping thousands of different businesses."

For further business help and advice, contact York, Selby and Malton Advice Centre Ltd on 01904 731562

Updated: 09:29 Tuesday, May 21, 2002