In March parents received letters that the nursery was likely to close at the end of August. Millais School, which acts as the managing agent for the nursery, has contacted West Sussex County Council (WSCC) claiming the nursery is no longer financially viable and should shut.

As parents of the babies and young children being cared for at the nursery, we believe this facility provides a fantastic environment for our children, high standards of care and an important service to the community.

The school itself says on its website that the nursery 'not only enables the school to attract and retain high calibre staff, but offers a very valuable facility for the local community'.

WSCC conducted its own assessment into childcare provision in Horsham as recently as March 2008, and concluded that there were potential gaps in day nursery care for children aged two years and under.

When you factor in a lack of facilities that offer 8am to 6pm care, 51 weeks of the year to working parents, and the growing number of families living and moving to the area, then the decision to close Millais Day Nursery lacks any real sense.

Two other nurseries or pre-schools in Horsham are also being forced to close in the coming weeks, further increasing demand.

We believe with the right financial planning and the commitment of both parents and the dedicated staff we can make Millais Day Nursery a sustainable success for the future.

We are making representations to Millais School against the closure but would like to encourage readers to visit our website www.savemillaisnursery.co.uk to sign the petition and express their support.

Alternatively, please contact the county council or local councillor direct to register your objections.

Millais Day Nursery Parents' Group
Highlands Road, Horsham