A Northumberland nursery has been saved from closure after being sold.
Swarland Pre-School, in Morpeth, was at risk of closing after a downturn in profitability and staffing issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
But the business has now been saved after being bought by Moira Johnson and Ashleigh Meynell, who own two Shining Stars Pre-Schools in Newcastle.
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John Scott, committee chairman of Swarland Pre-School, said: “We were open for over a decade with many successful years but, with Covid, we really struggled which pushed us into looking for a new owner.
"We’re delighted with the support Vicky has given us during this time and for finding Moira and Ashleigh who had the vision and passion to take on the pre-school and breathe new life into it.
"I am really looking forward to seeing how Moira and Ashleigh put their own stamp on the setting and take it forward, it’s a great result for the local community."
The pre-school was established in 1998 as a not-for-profit nursery offering term-time only provision for up to 19 children aged zero to five years.
It is located on a primary school site in Morpeth and has a large outdoor play area for the children.
Moira and Ashleigh said the nursery is the perfect addition to their current settings.
Moira added: “At our new site in Swarland, Morpeth, we will be offering an excellent Pre-School for two to four year olds and wrap around care, as well as a holiday club.
"We are looking forward to welcoming our new children and their families, and working alongside the local primary school and local community.”
The pre-school sale was carried out by specialist business property adviser Christie & Co, with Vicky Marsland, associate director of childcare and education handling the sale.
She said: "It comes as no surprise that a lot of nurseries have found it hard to recover financially since the pandemic, alongside growing staffing pressures.
"However, I do believe there is always an opportunity for a business to re-establish itself under the right ownership.
"With a new perspective, certainly from experienced local operators, I’m sure that this nursery will thrive and continue to provide much-needed care for children and support for parents in the local community."
