AN EX-Worcester Warriors rugby star and crowd favourite is preparing to tackle a new challenge after opening a nursery school in the city.

Jim Jenner, who played for Worcester for five years, decided to take the plunge after swapping a full-time contract at Sixways for a part-time deal with Birmingham & Solihull.

In partnership with his brother, Jeff, he believes it was the ideal time to set up a quality day care centre in Worcester.

"It may seem a big change from rugby but I see it as a progressive step," said the number 8. "Rugby, like any sport, is insecure and I've long wanted to establish myself outside of the game."

The brothers also have the perfect background for the project, as they were brought up at their parents' school in Devon.

"School life is in our blood and it's nice to follow in your parents footsteps," said Jim, who had a season of Premiership rugby with the Newcastle Falcons.

"During my time here I have grown to love Worcester and its people and realised that there was a gap in the market for quality child care."

Facilities

Both Jim and Jeff, who is a qualified lawyer, agreed the premises in Greenhill, London Road, in Sidbury, was the perfect site for busy working parents to drop off their children.

And setting it up was boosted by a £48,000 grant - presented on Thursday, July 17 - from the New Opportunities Fund.

Top quality facilities include new play equipment, books, a carefully prepared garden, a separate baby sleep room and a newly-refurbished kitchen to prepare lunches and teas.

"Coming from a sporting background, I believe there is a great deal this nursery can offer children," said Jim. "We will include physical skills and sports on the curriculum - things like Soccer Tots.

"Anything that improves co-ordination and promotes playing together is ideal for children of all ages."

The nursery will cater for anyone between three months and five years old, and, under manager Helen Smith, is the finest way to prepare children for school life.

"Although we will be catering for busy mums we welcome anybody who needs childcare," she said. "We are confident that children will look forward to coming to our school."

The London Road Nursery School will look after 50 children.