PRICKLY and scaly creatures delighted youngsters at a special event to celebrate the opening of a pre-school playroom.

Youngsters had the opportunity to meet, stroke and get to know animals such as Willow the hedgehog and George the tortoise at the accompanied playroom this week.

Children also enjoyed animal themed nursery rhymes, animal snacks and animal stories during Tot Spot's interactive sessions.

Tot Spot on Lowther Street, Whitehaven, opened it's door earlier this month at the site of the town's former Miss Selfridge store.

The new business has also just announced specials sessions for children with autism on Wednesdays. It will feature two hours of soft play, painting, Play-Doh, bubbles, sensory play, toys, crafting, and much more.

Angie Palmer, who runs Tot Spot, said said she has had a good reponse from the public so far and she thinks her business with give the town a bit of a lift.

She said: "The feedback we have received so far has been incredibly positive."

"Everyone saying that this is just what the town needs to regenerate interest and they are happy with the town centre location being so accessible to those using public transport."

"I really get the feeling that visitors to our lovely town will stay longer, or come to town when they would normally have stayed home for lunch. I hope it will also become a meeting place for shoppers whose toddlers need some time out."

Norah Messenger's Norah's Ark brings animals including a bearded dragon, a pygmy hedgehog, a tortoise and owls to schools and nurseries.

Norah worked at the Muncaster Owl Centre for over 10 years. She said children enjoy getting up close to the animals and asking questions about their behaviour .

For more information about Tot Spot's sessions, call Angie on 07746 687209, visit www.totspotwhitehaven.co.uk or search for the Tot Spot Facebook page.