A NEW children's play centre has opened in Halesowen creating eight jobs and a place for parents to put their feet up.

The Owl and Pussycat, Queensway, includes a soft play area for children aged up to 10 years, which includes an interactive Eye Play system and the Pea Green Boat Cafe which serves food and drinks for adults and children.

Wendy Hughes, business development manager at the Owl and the Pussycat, is delighted with the response of local parents.

She said: "This is a fantastic play centre and much needed for the community of Halesowen.

"When taking over the building back in August 2013, we always knew there was a need for a play facility in Halesowen and we took over the building with that in mind.

"We feel that what we have designed is a beautiful, safe and clean environment in which children can play to their hearts' content."

She added: "Parents and guardians are able to sit and relax knowing their children are safe.

"We are also putting together an exciting timetable of events and are available for children's parties."

Halesowen Job Centre worked with the company to ensure local people filled the new jobs.

Mrs Hughes added: "Most of the staff have been referred to us by Halesowen Job Centre and six of them will be taken down the Apprenticeship route."