A LONG-STANDING Rubery nursery has been forced to close its doors after 32 years of trading.

Last week, St Oswald’s Pre-School Nursery based at Rubery community centre served its last day in the community.

Due to low numbers, Alison Cammack, who has been manager of the nursery for 23 years, has taken the decision to cease trading.

However, she said she will still be running a breakfast club, after school club and holiday club from Beaconside Primary School.

“When the nursery first opened it was open ever day but it went down to Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday once schools started having their own nurseries,” said Alison, aged 59.

“Now, this has happened.

“It’s such a shame.

“More people are staying at home and working from home.

“Another nursery has also opened up in Rubery which is full time.

“If people do work, they want more childcare hours.”

Alison said there was previously a waiting list for children to come to the nursery, but numbers dwindled to around seven children.

“Children didn’t really come back last September; we haven’t had many enquiries.

“Things have changed in the recent years.”

St Oswald’s Pre School and Nursery provided childcare for two, three and four year olds.