A PRE-SCHOOL that has been running for 36 years could close due to a lack of children on its books.

Jack and Jill Pre-school, in Main Road, Broomfield, may be forced to shut this summer as there are not enough children enrolled for the next academic year to make it economically viable to continue.

There are currently only 10 children enrolled for the next academic year but the pre-school’s committee says there must be at least 30 to keep the service running.

Cheryl Barry, 41, committee secretary at the pre-school, said it would be a loss to the community if it did close.

She added: “We have been speaking with residents in the area who have expressed upset at the chance of the pre-school closing.

“We have 28 staff who could lose their jobs and some of those members of staff have been here for 20 years or more.

“We have people who used to come here as children and have returned with their own children.

“If our pre-school does close down it would be devastating for the community and our staff.

“We are a different type of pre-school and even take the children on days out and trips to parks and libraries, and work to help them explore their surroundings and community.”

Ms Barry said that unless there is an increase in interest in the preschool, the committee may have to take a decision to close it at the end of May.

The pre-school runs sessions on weekdays from 9.15am un - til 12.15pm and 12.15pm until 3.15pm, which cost £12 per session per child. The pre-school has agreed to waver the £5 joining fee for the next academic year.

If you are interested in enrolling your children, call 07346 635068 or visit www.jackandjill preschoolbroomfield.co.uk