RUSPIDGE Early Learners has closed its doors after 42 years despite a desperate plea to double its intake of children.

Staff and volunteers will be selling the playgroup’s toys and equipment at Ruspidge Memorial Hall this Saturday (September 17) from 1pm.

Committee member Gemma Adams contacted the Review in July hoping to raise awareness of its plight to increase numbers from five to at least 10 in a bid to prevent closure.

She said: “It is with the greatest sadness we have to announce our closure with immediate effect. We wish to thank all of our staff, parents, children and committee over the last 42 years for all your support. We are devastated to see the end of this much-loved community playgroup. Please come and

say hello (and goodbye) and grab some bargains.”