A NEW facility at HM Naval Base Clyde has opened its doors – with the aim of helping mothers returning from maternity leave to raise their fitness levels.

The new crèche at HMS Neptune’s Sportsdrome will allow parents to keep their children entertained in a safe and secure environment while they take advantage of the sport and fitness facilities next door.

The facility was officially opened by the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Philip Jones, on a recent visit to the base.

Craig Mearns, Captain of HMS Neptune, said: “The crèche has been a long time coming and I am proud to say it is now open and being fully utilised. This is a great opportunity for serving mums returning from maternity leave to get back into their fitness levels, ready to return back to work and prepare for their annual fitness test.”

The crèche is currently open on a trial basis every Tuesday and Friday from 9.15-11.15am.

Petty Officer Ian Robinson, the project manager, said: “We hope that parents will take advantage of the crèche and hopefully, if there is the demand, we will look at extending the service.”