MORE youngsters in Barry will get a helping hand to a better start in life, thanks to the expansion of a council-run project.

The Flying Start programme, funded by the Welsh Government, is already doing great work in Gibbonsdown and Cadoxton to improve the development, health and wellbeing of children under four.

And with the scheme set to double in size over the next two years, the team will soon be winging its way into more communities across the Vale of Glamorgan in 2013.

From April, Flying Start will be working with families in the Castleland area of Barry.

The Vale council's Flying Start programme expansion manager Antonia Bridges said: "I am delighted to announce the expansion of Flying Start into the Castleland area of Barry from April 2013.

"We currently work in Gibbonsdown and Cadoxton areas but will be doubling in size over the next two years and will be able to offer a service to 1,200 children.

"Flying Start is a Welsh Government funded initiative set up to provide support for families with children under the age of four years. We are a partnership organisation offering intensive health visiting support, childcare and parenting advice.

"The aim of the project is to improve a child's development, health and well being in preparation for school, giving them a better start in life.

"This is an exciting new development for the project," she added.

"The team are looking forward to working with new families and bringing the same high standards of care and expertise that we have developed over the last decade."

For more information contact Flying Start on 01446 723180 or E-mail: flyingstart@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk