A programme to help young children communicate better has scooped a national award.

The borough’s Talking Tots has won the Best Innovation category at What’s On 4 Little Ones awards.

The classes, which run in church halls across Bromley, Beckenham and West Wickham, use fun activities and colourful props to help pre-school youngsters gain social confidence. They also help to develop listening and attention skills.

The panel of judges also gave Talking Tots a commendation in the Best Toddler Development Class category.

Nicola Byers, 33, launched Talking Tots last month and is hoping to take her classes into local nurseries soon.

The former marketing manager from West Wickham said: "As a mum I know how exciting it is to see your child developing.

“I love taking the classes and it is clear in the faces of the children that they love coming - and they don’t even realise they are learning!”

Anyone interested in signing up for Talking Tots should contact Nicola on 07504 166 107 or visit www.talkingtots.info