I WAS sorry to hear of the proposed closure of Cherry Tree Neighbourhood Nursery (The Press, May 25). It is a sad occasion for families using the nursery and the dedicated staff who work there.

There are many reasons why a nursery might be forced to close, and any closure can feel devastating for families and the wider community.

Unfortunately we live in difficult financial times and life is hard for all types of businesses, including nurseries. I am chair of a group of local nurseries which meet as part of the National Day Nursery Association nursery network. Nurseries are working hard to cope with these financial difficulties and doing their best to avoid passing cost increases on to parents.

The article cites how Cherry Trees has been affected by an earlier primary school starting age, and this is something that has hit many nurseries in York.

However, there are still many nurseries in York offering fantastic care and early learning for children and would urge all parents to take a look at what is on offer.

For more information, visit Yor-ok.org.uk and ndna.org.uk

Ken McArthur, Chair, York National Day Nursery Association Network, Polly Anna’s Nursery, North Lane, Haxby, York