A playgroup that has been described as a ‘nurturing and welcoming environment’ is closing its doors.

Staff at Brinscall Playgroup which opened in Parke Road in 1970 have made the ‘sad’ decision to close for good after more than half a century of serving the community.

The playgroup is managed by Maureen Amos and operates from a large hall in Hillside Methodist Church.

It provides full day care for children aged two to four. As the school term has come to an end, the staff members announced the closure on Facebook.

The statement posted on Monday (July 24) said: “After 53 years, it’s time to close our doors. Brinscall preschool will be here no more.

“It’s sad we know, tears continue to flow. We are so happy to have helped your little ones grow.

“We will cherish our memories of all our special time together. Children and families, past and present, we love you all, forever. The Aunties.”

The most recent Ofsted inspection rated the school as ‘good’ and praised the staff for a ‘consistently strong’ quality of teaching. Staff were also credited for being sensitive and responsive to children’s needs.

One woman whose children attended the preschool said both of her sons “loved their time with the aunties" and they were made to feel like family. She added: “We couldn't have asked for a more caring and nurturing environment.”

Brinscall Playgroup was also praised for their community work with the staff taking part in various charity fundraiser events over the years.

One leader, who goes by ‘Aunty Joanne’ took part in The Great Tommy Sleep Out, where she spent a night sleeping outside without a tent to raise money for the homelessness charity.

One parent said: “End of an era ... heartbreaking to see this little playgroup close. A beautiful family and community gone.

“A group that just never stopped loving our children and nurtured them. Thank you for everything you have done.”

The Lancashire Telegraph has attempted to contact Brinscall Playgroup.