A NEW managing director (MD) has been appointed at a nursery and pre-school organisation.

Mama Bear's Day Nursery and Pre-School group, with settings in Bridgwater, Taunton and Yeovil, has announced the appointment of Chris Marston as MD.

Mr Marston, who joined the company last year as commercial director, took over as MD on March 1.

He has nearly 10 years experience in the education sector, as well as commercial management expertise.

“My move to MD signals a new phase for Mama Bear’s and I’m looking forward to taking the business to the next level," said Mr Marston.

“Mama Bear’s has an excellent reputation and strong foundations for growth. While I am excited about growing the business, I am conscious that quality childcare at the point of delivery is absolutely the top priority.

"Each individual setting must be looked at as its own business to ensure it continues to provide the right kind of care in the communities we serve.

“Having been with the organisation for the past year I am more than ready to take on the challenge, build on our success and drive Mama Bear’s forward.”

Chris will be supported by outgoing MD and owner Tony Driffield, who is moving to a chairman of the Board role.

Mama Bear’s was founded in 2002 and provides childcare for children aged three-months to five years.

The Mama Bear’s group now has 16 settings in Bristol, five in Devon and three in Somerset, caring for more than 2000 children in the South West.