Barnardos says it has ambitious plans to increase its services in the county.

The charity has been providing support to youngsters in the Midlands for 100 years but until recently its presence in the east has been limited.

A new centre is officially opening in Enderby on Tuesday and will act as a base to develop services across the East Midlands.

Managers say they are already in negotiation with the local authorities in Leicester and Leicestershire.

They are looking to introduce services for disabled children, those in need of emotional support and help for young runaways.