Children at an Ilkley nursery could be "homeless" next month unless an alternative venue is found.

Organisers have launched a last-ditch bid to find a new base for the group currently based at the Wells Road campus of Ilkley College which is closing down.

New site owners Crest Homes have failed to offer any guarantee about the nursery's future and time is running out for parents and staff.

Even the help of MP Ann Cryer has not been enough to secure a new home for youngsters.

Jane Hurst, group leader for the last two years, said: "I am making a renewed appeal for someone to come forward and provide us with some facilities to allow us to carry on."

The nursery, which caters for youngsters aged two to five, will close its doors for the final time in June and Mrs Hurst has been told by college officials that the building must be vacated by August.

Although students with children make use of the nursery, it is also used by "private" users - many of whom are appalled at the prospect of its demise.

"We appear to be out of luck so far," said Mrs Hurst.

"If anyone out there has any space they think would be suitable for the nursery, then please, please get in touch."

Mrs Hurst has stressed it is not a question of a couple of children being inconvenienced - the nursery caters for 12 children at any one time, but it has 30 youngsters on the books.

Parents and staff say they are not seeking "charity" and accept there will be costs connected with finding a new home.

Anyone who feels they have suitable space or wants to help in any way can contact Mrs Hurst at the Ilkley Campus Nursery on 01943 609010 (extension 331).

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