AN URGENT appeal has been made to save a pre-school.

A fundraising page has been launched in a desperate bid to secure the future of Greenmount Village Preschool.

Staff launched the appeal, stating that without additional funding, they could be forced to close.

The charity-run pre-school, based at The Old School, in Brandlesholme Road, has been providing care for children for more than 25 years.

The Just Giving page reads: "Without additional funding, we could be forced to close.

For more than 25 years, Greenmount Village Preschool has been providing quality childcare for children from two years old. Whenever you visit preschool you see the smiles on the children's faces as they enjoy their play and learning experiences with the "aunties" (that's we call our staff). The children are prepared well for their next big step — starting 'big' school.

"Recently, the amount of funding we receive has remained static but the cost of providing the high quality childcare we pride ourselves on is increasing. Put simply, our income won't cover our costs."

The pre-school is hoping to raise £10,000 to keep on providing its services until at least July 2020 while they "consider other options".

Staff said in a final appeal: "Will you help to give the children of Greenmount the firmest foundations for life?"

A total of £1,325 has been raised since the Just Giving page was set up on Saturday.

Parents, children and staff are also organising various activities to raise funds.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/greenmount-preschool.