A SPECIAL scheme has been launched which will allow childminders to borrow buggies and cots.

The project, the brainchild of Blackburn with Darwen Council, was officially unveiled at Bank Top Community Centre, Blackburn.

Childminders can borrow expensive items, including double buggies, high chairs and cots from the council, if they need them on a short-term basis. All registered childminders and private day nurseries can take part in the scheme, which is free of charge.

Lifelong Learning chairman Janice Parker said: "The scheme is one of the initiatives of the Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership in support of the national childcare strategy.

"The equipment is available for loan immediately and we will be reviewing the scheme in six months time."

Tots Lewis Dobson, six months and Ruth Leeming, 18 months are pictured with (from left) Coun Janice Parker, childminder Gillian Greenwood, library and resources centre officer Correne Brown and childminder Carol Shaw.

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