MORE than 120,000 three and four-year-olds in the South West are benefiting from free childcare.

The government has released statistics showing a unprecedented demand for childcare places in the South West thanks to its offer of 15 free hours per week.

Childcare providers have risen to the increased demand, and the statistics show that 97,500 three and four-year-olds get their funded hours in settings rated good or outstanding by Ofsted.

Childcare Minister, Sam Gyimah, said: “It’s fantastic that not only are so many parents accessing free childcare in the South West, but more places are in top quality settings.

“I’m delighted that we are extending this popular offer and doubling the number of free hours of high quality childcare to working parents.

“No parent should be denied the childcare option that works best for their family, but costs have historically been a burden on family finances that prevented them from working if they wanted to. We are removing these barriers and giving parents the chance to return to work.”

The Childcare Bill, introduced to Parliament this month, will double free childcare available for up to 600,000 families.

The number of free hours is soon to rise to 30 hours for working parents, meaning their children will be able to benefit from 1,140 free hours per year - worth around £5,000 per year in their back pocket.