Councillors have agreed to expand a free childcare scheme for two year-olds to more areas of Gwynedd.

Another 200 pre-school children in some of the county's most deprived areas will be able to benefit from the Flying Start programme.

The Cabinet decision will also see services being offered to more families in Penygroes, including health visitors, family, language and speech support, along with 12.5 hours of free childcare for two year-olds.

The scheme, which is currently run in seven communities, will extend to Tywyn, Harlech, Llandderfel and Llanuwchllyn, Penrhyndeudraeth, Efailnewydd / Buan, Aberdaron / Botwnnog and Tudweiliog, Cricieth, Waunfawr, Llanberis, Arllechwedd and Porthmadog West

Cyngor Gwynedd says over £4 million of Welsh Government funding will be available annually for the next three years.

Council leader Nia Jeffreys said: "Having access to good childcare locally can make a world of difference to a child's development."

"This is not the first time that the council's cabinet has endorsed supporting Flying Start schemes, and over the years we have seen purpose-built spaces being developed to help families with early years childcare in Deiniolen, Tywyn and Penygroes."

"Schemes like this lay a solid foundation for a child's school life but also tackle deprivation and increase the provision of Welsh-medium childcare within the county."

"I look forward to seeing more children and families in Gwynedd benefit from the scheme, and the positive impact it will have on their future."

Flying Start services have already been expanded in the Dyffryn Nantlle area, where a new childcare facility has opened at Ysgol Bro Lleu in Penygroes.

Cllr Menna Trenholme, cabinet member for children and family support, said: "It was great to have the opportunity to visit the site, chat with the children and appreciate the new resources and facilities that are now available at Plant y Nant, Ysgol Bro Lleu."

"I'm delighted that the cabinet has supported the expansion of the scheme – it's good news for the children and families of Penygroes, but also for some of the most deprived areas of the county."

The Plant y Nant managers added: "We are extremely grateful for the investment in Penygroes, which gives us a unique opportunity to expand our services and provide more opportunities for children and families in our community."

"This support not only strengthens our commitment but also enhances our ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the families in Dyffryn Nantlle."

"We look forward to creating new memories, fostering growth, and nurturing every child's potential in a vibrant and welcoming environment."