A LARGE-scale Government marketing campaign has been launched across Trafford to encourage parents to use childcare services.

The initiative, which will include bus posters, leaflets and direct mail, informs parents of three and four-year-olds how they can find out about playgroups, pre-schools, registered childminders, nurseries and out-of-hour school clubs.

It also points them in the direction of any help they may be entitled to - such as the 12-and-a-half hours of free early education per week for 38 weeks a year entitlement for children aged three and four.

Bev Hughes, Minister for Children, Families and Young People and Stretford and Urmston MP, said: "We know the first five years are a crucial time for a child's development. Good early years provision mean better life chances for children and a better future for them.

Free childcare can give parents a break and help them get back into work or training - but it can also be fun for their children and allow them to meet other children and learn new skills."

The adverts include a little girl high-kicking at a karate class and a second shows a group of youngsters playing musical instruments at an after-school club. They are accompanied by the tag line: "Affordable childcare. Great for your kids, great for you."