PARENTS are launching a new baby and toddler group in the Heworth area – with a plea for donations of toys in time for their first session.

Little Pips is aimed at parents and carers of children, from babies to five-year-olds, and will meet at Heworth Community Centre, Applecroft Road, every Wednesday, from 9.30am to 11.30am from June 13.

It has been set up by friends Gemma McDermott and Louise Cole, who live in the area, and wanted to create a group where they would take their own children.

Mum-of-two Gemma said: “We’ve had a lot of interest. I don’t think ten years ago there were that many young families in the area but it has changed a lot. This group is so that mums, dads and carers can get to know each other, as well as having somewhere for their children to meet.”

The group will feature weekly crafts, toys, songs, stories, tea/coffee and a sociable bring-and-share snack time, and cost £1 per session per family.

The voluntary-run group, which will hold future fundraising events to support Little Pips, is appealing for unwanted good-quality toys, including dressing-up clothes, toy trains, ride-ons, building bricks and craft materials.

Anyone who can help is being asked to phone 07769665166.