A BAG of magic tricks and some special balloons helped mark the official opening of West Somerset's newest nursery last Friday. Although the unit in the new Alcombe SureStart centre has been up and running for the past two months, organisers decided it was time to celebrate. And they drafted in Dave the Magician to provide some extra fun for the event. His talented tricks and balloon sculptures, along with face painting sessions and games, ensured the youngsters enjoyed themselves. The unit is a satellite operation run by the West Somerset Nursery, which will continue to run its main nursery in Minehead, set up seven years ago. In addition to a large outdoor play area, the Alcombe nursery has a sensory room, baby suite, kitchen and substantial indoor play facilities. The official opening was also a chance for potential users to check out the new facilities and to acknowledge a £353 grant from Taunton-based radio station Orchard FM, which was used to buy a wooden shop that can be used indoor or outdoors. The nursery can take up to 35 children, aged from three months to school age. It opens from 8.30am to 5.30pm on weekdays and currently has 16 on its books. Dishing out the fun - magician Dave is pictured with some of the youngsters at the opening. Photo: Steve Guscott.