TWO teachers who set up a Gwent nursery after they were made redundant now act as role models for other would-be female entrepreneurs.

Marie Ellis Jones and Emma Pryer established Little Stars, in Mamhilad, near Pontypool, with help from Chwarae Teg, the leading economic development agency for women in Wales.

Now the nursery is celebrating National Childcare Week, which begins today, by revealing plans to expand later this year.

One of the key messages of the week is that "quality childcare can make a positive difference to children, parents and communities".

Chwarae Teg believes everyone gains when childcare and early education are offered together.

Ruth Marks, Chwarae Teg chief executive, said: "One of the main stumbling-blocks for women in Wales wanting to return to work after having children or raising a family is the general lack of both affordable and good-quality childcare.

"The need for widespread access to childcare has never been more critical to the Welsh economy, with some 40 per cent of the workforce made up of parents of school-age or pre-school children."

Chwarae Teg has kept in close contact with the founders of Little Stars nursery throughout its two years in business.

Both women now act as role models to promote female entrepreneurship, particularly to women who are interested in setting up a childcare facility.

"We were quite young leaving teaching, and Chwarae Teg has been there for us every step of the way," said 28-year-old Ms Pryer.

"Because of the demand for quality childcare in Gwent, we're expanding the business. In September we will be offering childcare for children before and after school."

The Chwarae Teg guide, Improving Business Through Better Childcare: Employers' Childcare Guide, is available from the Chwarae Teg national office in Cardiff. Please telephone 02920 478900 for a copy.