A NEW play centre for children is nearing completion in Malvern.

Building work on the indoor facility on Sparrowhawk Close, at the Enigma Business Park, has been under way for six weeks.

Now the man behind the project, Adrian Duncan, has announced that it could be open before Christmas.

Mr Duncan and his wife Paula came up with the idea for the Having A Ball centre two years ago, after they got fed up with being stuck in traffic while driving their two children to play centres in Worcester.

"Malvern has definitely needed something like this, as there's simply not enough for children to do on a rainy day," said Mr Duncan.

The play centre houses a 'monstrous' three-level climbing frame, incorporating slides, a ball-pool and dedicated baby area.

Although he hopes to run a crche facility in the future, Mr Duncan said the centre would principally offer somewhere for parents to relax while their children play in a safe and secure environment.

"Parents will be able to relax, read a book and enjoy a decent meal or a cup of coffee," he said.

Children up to the age of 12 years will be able to enjoy the facility, which will open daily from 9.30am-6pm and until 8pm on Friday and Saturday.

Mr Duncan hopes to open the centre on December 22 and is already taking bookings for birthday parties.

Further information is available at www.having-a-ball.co.uk