Watford MP Dean Russell recently invited Hayley Yendell, a headteacher from Oxhey Early Years Centre, to 10 Downing Street to join in a celebration for all the Childcare Champions across the nation.

This invitation followed his visit to Oxhey Early Years Centre where he participated in the opening of their impressive new garden and play area.

MP Russell was fulsome in his praise for the Centre as he said: "I was delighted to nominate Hayley to represent Oxhey Early Years Day Centre at Number 10.

"She leads a very busy and hard working team who provide inspirational leadership and brilliant opportunities for many younger children."

The gathering at 10 Downing Street allowed Ms Yendell to meet childcare providers from across the UK and provided an opportunity for her to be introduced to the Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, David Johnston OBE MP, who expressed gratitude for her dedicated work.

Headteacher Ms Yendell said: "I wanted to take a moment to express my sincerest gratitude for inviting me to Tuesday's event. It truly was a fabulous evening! David Johnston's address and words of thanks resonated deeply with me, especially as a member of the often overlooked group of community carers. It meant a great deal to hear the work of maintained Nursery Schools acknowledged."