AN Irby nursery had a special visit from local author Jude Lennon who gave the first reading of her new children's book.

Busy Bees Irby, based on Thingwall Road, welcomed Jude who was commissioned to write her new book 'Be safe with Buzz a walk in Busy Bees' woods' by the nursery's parent company.

Jude's book features the outdoor adventures of the nursery's mascot Buzz the Bee and his mischievous friends who he keeps out of harm's way during a walk through the woods.

The book has been written to help youngsters understand risks and make good decisions on how to stay safe.

Author Jude Lennon said: “I’m really proud to be working with Busy Bees to promote the importance of child safety.

"It was a pleasure to visit Busy Bees Irby and meet the children.

"I hope they enjoyed hearing about Buzz and his friend’s adventures as much as I enjoyed writing it!”

Safety with Buzz promotes all aspects of children's welfare and is designed to provide parents with guidance, experiences, ideas and top tips to help them encourage their child to learn about risk and how to keep out of harm's way.

As part of the campaign, Busy Bees’ educators are also supported with relevant activities that promote the safety initiative within the setting.

Nursery manager at Busy Bees Irby, Becky Caplin said: “We’re really grateful Jude took the time to come and share Buzz’s story with our pre-school children.

"They all love the book and it was extra special having Jude read it to the children.

"The book, Be Safe with Buzz, is the perfect way to teach children important safety messages about the outdoors with the help of our nursery’s much-loved mascot, Buzz.”

The Safety with Buzz campaign is supporting parents through a new app called UP (Unleashing Potential) which provides guidance on how to support children through learning and development.

Head of Safety at Busy Bees, Emily Brimson-Keight said: “Children’s wellbeing is so important to us and we do everything we can to ensure their safety.

"Part of giving children the best start in life is giving them key skills they can use throughout their life and Safety with Buzz offers parents and staff a whole host of resources to help children learn how to be safe.”

For more information about Busy Bees’ Safety with Buzz campaign, visit upatbusybees.co.uk/inspiration-corner/safety-with-buzz/