Jobs axed in nursery shock closure decision
A nursery will close next month following a shock decision by bosses, resulting in the loss of seven jobs.
Parents will also have to find new places for the 37 children on books at Little Friends Nursery, in Cannock, when it shuts on October 30.
The crèche in Girton Road, is run by Living Springs Community Church and cares for new-born babies to eight years. It opened 10 years ago.
Phil Hewitt, trustee for the nursery said Little Friends 'no longer fits the long term vision of the church'.
He said: "The decision to close the nursery is one that has not been taken lightly."
He added: "Little Friends celebrated its 10th anniversary last year and is in a healthy financial position - however the original intention of establishing the nursery was not to make money."
"We feel the role of the nursery no longer fits the long term vision of the church which is to provide emotional support for the whole of Cannock and the wider community.
"We have felt for some time that the building used for the nursery could be better used to that end.
"As a church we do not see ourselves as a business but first and foremost a support network for all ages and we look forward to establishing new projects on the Girton Road site that can fulfil that goal."
Manager Susan Henley opened the nursery, which is open five days a week from 7.30am - 6.30pm.
She said: "It is with great sadness that we close our doors on October 30
"We have had the pleasure of serving our community for just over 10 years. Our children are fabulous and our parents are fantastic. You have provided us with endless laughs and tremendous support over the years and the odd headache and we will miss you all very much."
She added: "The next few weeks will be emotional and at times difficult but also very precious as we get to spend the rest of our time with those we have come to think of as family."
Kim Richards has worked for the nursery for three years. She said: "I am heartbroken that the nursery has to close. It's a fantastic nursery great parents and brilliant kids. I don't see why we have to close."
Parents have left messages of support for the staff on the nursery's business page.
Sophie Webster said: "Little Friends is not just a nursery it is our daughter's second family. One of the biggest decisions you ever make as a working parent is who you entrust the care of your child to."
