THE immediate threat of closure at a rural Purbeck pre-school has been lifted.

Langton Matravers’ St George’s Pre-School faced being shut for good at the end of this term, as it was struggling to maintain student numbers.

But at a crunch meeting, following an online appeal for new students backed by the Daily Echo, pre-school leaders have decided it is viable to continue operating.

Ali Burnett, a parent who campaigned to keep the pre-school open, said: “What a difference a week makes.

“On Monday, July 3, trustees held a meeting of members of Langton Matravers’ St George’s Pre-School to explain their reasons for proposing the closure of the school.”

These reasons were falling pupil numbers coupled with insufficient government funding.

Ali said: “Parents and friends responded magnificently to the trustee’s challenge, signing up additional trustees, exploring additional sources of funding such as sponsorship and starting a ‘Friends of St George’s Pre-School’ scheme.

“They made plans to introduce wraparound care before and after school from next term.

“A new social media team has worked tirelessly throughout the week, their efforts culminating in a wonderfully sunny open day on July 8, complete with a treasure hunt around the pre-school’s allotment and woodland learning area.

“As a result of all this hard work and commitment, the school now has more children on roll and the threat of closure has been lifted.”

Last week the Echo reported how the pre-school, which is based at St George's Church of England Primary School, was facing closure.

At that time Mary Sparks, chairman of the trustees, said: "The decision is in no way a reflection of the excellent work done by pre-school staff, nor the wonderful support provided by parents and friends.

"We have explored all possible avenues and have taken advice from Early Years advisors, but it seems clear that unless we get at least twelve more children on roll for September, there is no way to balance the books in the future."

Following the latest development, Ali said: “But there is still work to be done. We would welcome more children for next year, do contact the pre-school on 01929 423704 and speak to Ruth or Pam if you’d like to come and look round.

“If you can support the pre-school as a friend or with sponsorship, we’d love to hear from you.

“Watch out for us on social media, and like us when you see us.

“Our pre-school is a vital community asset which gives children strong foundations on which to build a confident future and we are determined to keep it open.”