A pioneering centre for children and adults in Chipping Norton and surrounding villages has been praised by a Government inspector.

The Ace Centre in Burford Road was only one of 35 to earn the designation as an Early Excellence Centre.

Co-ordinator Betty Fletcher with nine-month-old Poppy Lawrence

An inspector said: "Families receive accessible and affordable childcare and there is good provision for adult education. This can be attributed to good features in teaching, secure management and a strong sense of team working."

**Picture: Jon Lewis