Former Harrogate bank manager Ruth Dowswell created the 'Young Discoverers' after-school club, based at Escrick Primary School, to spend more time with her two young daughters Grace and Maisie.

She is currently applying for Ofsted registration for the facility, and hopes to expand the opening hours to incorporate a breakfast club.

The entrepreneur is also seeking planning permission for a children's day nursery at Escrick Business Park to provide care for 50 children aged from three months to five years, and create a further 15 jobs.

Ruth said: "I feel very passionately about high quality childcare because I have used it myself in the past.

"The response from parents has been fantastic. I have had some excellent feedback, and I am really pleased with how it's going."

She added: "It has given me a bit of time back with my own children, and it's a pleasure to see so many other children enjoying the facilities."

Children at the after- school club can take part in crafts and reading, enjoy some quiet time or get help with their homework

E-mail info@youngdiscoverers.com, call 01757 249426 or log-onto www.youngdiscoverers.com website for further details.