AN MP has visited a nursery in Bournemouth to discuss the expansion of funded childcare.

Tom Hayes, MP for Bournemouth East, spent time at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital-based Tops Day Nurseries where he engaged in discussions about the upcoming expansion of funded childcare, environmental sustainability, and the nursery switching to become an Employee Ownership Trust.

During the visit on Thursday, August 22, he met with Cheryl Hadland, the founder and chair of the nursery, and Sam King, the chief executive officer.

The MP also interacted with children at the nursery and emphasised the importance of environmental sustainability by engaging in a beach scene crafting session with reusable materials.

Topics discussed during the visit included the national shortfall of nursery staff and concerns about operative expenses, including business rates.

The environmental crisis was another key topic, highlighting the issue of pollution caused by water companies and one-use plastics.

Concerns for children's health, air pollution and the lack of dietary options in nurseries were also highlighted.

Mr Hayes read the children a story during the visitMr Hayes read the children a story during the visit (Image: Tops Day Nurseries)

Ms Hadland said: "We were delighted to welcome Tom, our new MP, into the Tops nursery and the Royal Bournemouth Hospital."

Mr Hayes said: "It was a pleasure to visit Tops Bournemouth and meet their wonderful children and colleagues."