A RUNCORN nursery has been nominated for a national award.

Little Manor Private Day Nursery has been shortlisted to win Healthy Nursery of the Year at the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Awards.

Dozens of parents wrote glowing testimonies to help the nursery on Manor Farm Road become one of six finalists for the prestigious accolade.

Mum Helen Hignett said: “It is an amazing nursery. Over the years that my daughter has attended the nursery she has learned about brushing her teeth, the importance of cleanliness and germs, healthy food and exercise and even about the importance of sleep in your daily routine.

“She really enjoys the variety of active learning and healthy meals on offer and was so excited when she was given a bag of ingredients to take home so we could cook a healthy carrot soup with her at home.”

Little Manor has already been awarded Halton healthy early years status by the council and has also received a breast feeding friendly certificate as part of its Baby Welcome Award.

Children are provided with freshly prepared food from a healthy seasonal menu with meals including salmon tikka with jewelled brown rice and red pepper sauce.

A wooded adventure playground and sandpit give youngsters the chance to play outside every day.

Little Manor Nursery manager Carla Lawrenson said: “We’re really touched that so many of our parents voted for us to win Healthy Nursery of the Year and would like to thank them all for taking the time to write such lovely things about us.

“Giving our children the best possible start in life begins with helping them to make healthy choices now and in the future.

“Our team is always thinking of fun and creative ways to promote healthy living both at the nursery and at home.

“It’s wonderful to have this recognised by our parents and the NDNA.”

NDNA Chief Executive, Purnima Tanuku said: “This is a fantastic achievement.

"Congratulations to Little Manor for being an example of the amazing, inspirational work happening in the childcare sector every day.

“Our nursery awards are particularly special as they are the only ones voted for by parents.”

Children’s TV Presenter Johnny Ball will announce the winners at an awards ceremony at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on June 30.