THE new chairman of Cheadle-based education group Nord Anglia, which runs private nurseries and schools, told shareholders today he was excited by the firm's growth opportunities.

Alan Kelsey took over from founder Kevin McNeany, who stood down at today's annual meeting. Mr Kelsey, praised his predecessor's entrerpreneurial vision and drive.

Mr McNeany, 61, established the business in 1972. It was floated in 1997 and now has a market value of almost '90m. Mr McNeany has left to build a new company providing schools for children with special needs.

Mr Kelsey said Nord Anglia's new management team is hoping to raise occupancy levels at its nursery schools, which have remained stable but below expectations.

Improving nursery rolls is a priority for the rest of the year and should be apparent by May, when Nord Anglia is due to publish its half-year results, he added.

Pupil numbers at its international schools are rising. It also has an outsourcing division.

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