BOYS and girls were singing the praises of their nursery in the east end of Greenock after it was officially opened following a £1.2 million makeover.

The youngsters at Glenbrae Children's Centre put on a performance to celebrate their new home just up the road from their old building.

Former Inverclyde Council social services offices have been transformed into a modern early learning facility for boys and girls up to the age of five and a hub providing out of school care services for those aged between five and 12.

The local authority has spent £1.2m completely refurbishing the Kilmacolm Road building, which features a new entrance canopy, windows, doors and roof lights.

Play spaces have been created outside each room, including a mix of soft surfaces and decking, and the existing car park was resurfaced.

Joyce Patrick, head of centre, said: "We've been here now since July and it's beginning to feel like home.

"The children have settled into the building like they have always been here.

"It's a bright, new building that provides the learning environment they deserve.

"I would like to thank everyone for their support during the move and for being here with us today."

Children entertained the audience by singing some traditional Scottish favourites, including 'Ye Canny Shove Yer Grannie Aff a Bus' and 'Ally Bally', and rounded off the event with some Christmas songs.

Provost Martin Brennan was given the honour of officially opening the new nursery - part of the council's £270m schools estate programme - and unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion.

Mr Brennan said: "The school building programme hasn't been cheap but if you want excellence you have to pay for it and I believe it's been worth every penny.

"The opening of Glenbrae Children's Centre marks one more important milestone in that journey.

"It's an investment in our children and the future of Inverclyde."

The new nursery replaces the original Glenbrae Road building just down the street, which dates back to 1975.

Councillor Natasha Murphy, vice-convener of communities, said: "What a fantastic space this is around us.

"Thank you all for your efforts to bring this nursery to life for the children."