Ref. 28766-7NEW parents in Pinehurst will be feeling a little less isolated with the arrival of a new group for toddlers.

Pinehurst Tots, which is run by the Children's Information Service at the People's Centre, opened its doors for the first time on Friday.

Information coordinator Tara Sturm said the sessions would be a valuable resource for young parents.

They are funded jointly by the service and the Pre-School Learning Alliance.

But the group could be facing an uncertain future if Swindon Council's proposals to make huge cuts in the budget for community grants become reality.

Tara said: "The sessions give parents a chance to make friends and go out and do things. A they are very good for the toddlers because they can play with other children and improve their social skills."

She said parents at home with a young child often felt isolated and unsure of what to do with their youngster. The groups helped to reduce that feeling.

For the little ones at Pinehurst Tots on Friday, there was a room full of new and exciting toys to play with and a colouring session, with the results proudly displayed to their parents.

Sessions cost 50p and run from 1pm to 2.30pm on Fridays.