Devon nurseries re-open after ex-worker held

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Inspectors have lifted the temporary closure of two Devon nurseries after a former employee was arrested.

Mama Bear's Day Nurseries in Paignton will re-open on Monday, a month earlier than planned, Ofsted confirmed.

A 43-year-old man arrested on suspicion of possessing and distributing indecent images of children has been bailed until 5 May.

The BBC understands the alleged offences are not connected to the nurseries.

Read more on this story as it develops throughout the day on our Local Live pages.

The nurseries were closed by Ofsted on 11 January and were to have remained closed until 21 February, managers were told initially.

Safeguarding children 'priority'

An Ofsted spokesman said: "We are satisfied that the measures the provider has taken suitably minimises the risk of harm to young children."

Mama Bear's managing director Tony Driffield said: "We're pleased that we are able to offer our usual provision for our families a month before we thought we might be able to.

"We have been co-operating with Ofsted and the police who are investigating a former employee.

"The investigation is still ongoing but both Ofsted and the police are satisfied that children are not at risk at our settings.

"The safeguarding of children is our first priority at all times."