A BOURNEMOUTH couple say they have managed to save a much-needed community nursery from being sold off to developers.

Last year, Bournemouth Nuffield Hospital decided to sell off its day nursery building in the hospital grounds for redevelopment.

But Natalie Steele and Peter Ward say they beat off rival bids from interested developers and persuaded the hospital to let them carry on running a nursery on the site.

Now they have completely refurbished the facility on Lansdowne Road, with a series of themed rooms devoted to music, match, creative arts, computers, soft play, the elements and the world.

And there won't be a turkey twizzler in sight, as staff are laying on a menu inspired by top chefs such as Raymond Blanc, Jamie Oliver and Annabel Karmel.

Natalie said: "With so many older Bournemouth properties being redeveloped for flats, we are proud to have saved this wonderful building.

"We are completing the refurbishment and now have a first class unique setting for local children."

The building was first built in the 1930s and was a care home before it became a nursery.

It has provided nursery facilities for children of staff working at the Nuffield Hospital, as well as the wider community.

Now it is offering places for up to 64 youngsters aged under five years old, and has three reception rooms and a secure outside area, as well as the themed rooms.

Natalie added: "We would also like to thank our manager Claire Plunkett and her team for their contribution to our excellent Ofsted report last month."

The Bournemouth Day Nursery is open Monday to Friday from 7am to 6pm.