THERE was fun for all the family as a new children's centre was officially opened. Saturday's sunshine tempted hundreds of people out to the new facility, based at De Havilland Primary School in Hatfield. Activities included art workshops, go-karts, cater

THERE was fun for all the family as a new children's centre was officially opened.

Saturday's sunshine tempted hundreds of people out to the new facility, based at De Havilland Primary School in Hatfield.

Activities included art workshops, go-karts, caterpillar music and a display by the newly-formed De Havilland Jets cheerleading group.

The opening ceremony was conducted by county councillor Jane Pitman, lead member for children's services, and Welwyn Hatfield mayor Michael Long.

Also in attendance were Helen Ashdown and Caroline Swindells, both county council children's services representatives, along with headteacher Tim Day, chair of governors John Cox and Sarah Bowyer, the children's centre manager.

Helping Cllr Pitman cut the ribbon was 17-month-old Teya Cordingley, one of the first youngsters to attend the new facility.

And St Philip Howard School pupil Chloe Parker, 11, received a special presentation for her logo design for the children's centre.

The children's centre was set up as part of a Government initiative to offer 'service hubs' for under-fives and their families. It is the Government's vision that every community in the country will be served by a children's centre by next year.