Banbury's East Street Centre is one of nine new Early Excellence Centres for childcare which have been announced by the Government.

The move recognises the work done at the centre.

Catherine Ashton, the minister for early years and school standards, said: "These excellence centres are at the forefront of the Government's strategy to raise standards by providing high quality practices across a broad range of education and care services for children, families, and providers."

The East Street Centre delivers a variety of services for children, including a playgroup for the Asian community, adult education, and family support. It runs a multi-racial Saturday club attended by up to 70 families every week.