A Cockermouth pre-school which has been running for nearly 50 years and supported hundreds of families will close today.

The ongoing increases in running costs have forced the voluntary management committee to close Kirkgate Preschool, which has been based at the Friends Meeting House since 1969. Seven staff have lost their jobs.

The pre-school was set up by two Quaker mothers and has grown since then.

Twenty-one families were enrolled this term, and it also runs a weekly toddler group which is attended by more than 30 youngsters.

Leader Lisa Muir has been working there for eight years. Both of her children attended.

“We are all devastated,” said Lisa. “Kirkgate Pre-school is well respected in the community. It’s a loss not just to the children who are here but also all the families who have used this place over the years.”

A committee spokesman said: “Sadly, the pre-school now finds itself in a financially unsustainable position with the running costs far exceeding its income.

“The cost of running the preschool has been rising steadily over the years. The nursery grants, which pay for 15 hours of free childcare, have not increased in line with running costs.

“The pre-school has been a wonderful, caring, warm and creative place for countless children over the last 47 years.

“The committee thanks the leader and staff for all the hard work, enthusiasm, energy and laughter they have brought with them every single day – come rain or shine.”

All those connected with the pre-school, past and present, are invited to pop in for coffee and cake between 10.30am and 12.15pm today.

Everyone is welcome to a sale of nursery toys, books and resources on Saturday, November 12, from 10am to noon at the Friends Meeting House.