From today, 1,065 two-year-olds from Barking and Dagenham will be eligible for free childcare.

The new rules mean those from the poorest homes will qualify for 15 hours a week with a nursery or childminder without having to pay.

Announced by Nick Clegg today, it is being supported with £500million of government funding into childcare and £100million through local authorities.

The Deputy Prime Minister commented: “These funded places are focused on helping the families that need them most.”

Next year, further funding of £760million will boost the number of children receiving free early years education.

In Barking and Dagenham, the extra funding in 2014 will help an additional 2,300 two-year-olds from families earning less than £16,190 who receive working tax credits.

Sarah Ludlow, Liberal Democrat Member of the European Parliament For London, commented: “This is a welcome announcement for families in Barking and Dagenham.

“Early education helps promote a child’s physical, emotional and social development.”

Barking and Dagenham will have one of the highest number of two-year-olds eligible for the scheme across all London boroughs.

Nearby, Newham has 1,210, Redbridge has 828 and Havering has 506 children who can qualify.