A NEW nursery has opened in Otley - and is set to create up to 25 jobs.

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery, on Westgate, is part of the award-winning group of the same name and will provide full-time day care for up to 75 pre-school age children.

Aided by a £186,000 funding package from NatWest bank, the business is seeking to recruit up to 25 full and part-time employees.

NatWest’s support allowed business owner and former teacher, Diane Basseux, to renovate the Old Surgery premises, buy equipment and cover marketing costs.

Diane said: "Selecting the correct nursery for your children is a huge decision for any parent which is why I’ve chosen to launch Monkey Puzzle in the Otley area.

"We’ve specially designed a fun and welcoming environment for children to grow, learn and develop and our location on Westgate is really convenient for busy, working parents."

Facilities in the nursery include enclosed, 'free-flow' play areas including a baby garden, dedicated nursery rooms and a sleep and sensory room.

The business also has a private car park and CCTV.

NatWest Relationship Manager, Rob Lafrance, said: "Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery will provide local parents with greater choice.

"As a former teacher, Diane is ideally placed to help prepare children to take their next step into primary education."