Busy Bees is poised for further expansion in the South East after acquiring a rival nursery chain.

The firm, which runs day centres across Kent and Medway, including Maidstone Hospital, purchased Positive Steps Day Nursery LTD and its portfolio of eight centres in a deal thought to be the largest of its kind in the sector so far this year.

Among the childcare giant’s new premises is the nursery in St John’s Road, Sevenoaks, as well as others in Maidenhead, Guildford and West Byfleet.

Managing director Marg Randles said: “We are delighted to welcome the Positive Steps group into the Busy Bees family.

“It is our promise to keep our parents informed every step of the way, as we continue to improve the excellent care, resources and services this collection of outstanding nurseries currently offer.”

The sale was completed on Monday, bringing Busy Bees’ total number of nurseries to 266.

Paul Clarke, former Positive Steps owner, said: “The past 16 years has been an incredible journey and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved

“These are exciting times and I will watch with pride as the business continues to go from strength to strength under its new owners."