IN the nine months since Jane Barker restored an 18th century Grade II listed building in Castlegate, York, converting it into a wondrous nursery called SmartypantS, its reputation has soared. Now she wants it to be the New Business of the Year.

Already with a staff of 13, including a qualified cook, SmartypantS is taking bookings for its baby rooms under its "plot reservation" system almost a year in advance, with parents delighted at the result of the influence of Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of creating harmony and balance in life and surroundings.

It caters for up to 32 children, eight in the baby unit (three months to 18 months), eight toddlers (18 months to two and a half years) and 16 pre-school (two and a half to five).

Jane, a qualified nursery nurse, has ensured that the entrance is like a park in Mary Poppins, with an oak tree to symbolise growth and white picket fencing around imitation grass.

There is a "happy fountain", a ball pool, educational guides like steps that talk numbers and toys, toys, toys galore.

Jane introduced a security swipe card system to aid parents' entry into SmartypantS, offered a weekend creche facility to shoppers and offers corporate places - there is a special arrangement for the staff of CPP of York. It also offers childcare at weddings for guests and is organising traditional children's parties.