A CHURCH nursery in Nelson has been axed because of a major shortfall in funding.

The Church of England, which provides subsidised childcare at the former St Philip's Church in Leeds Road, Nelson, has been forced to withdraw the service, despite desperate attempts to save it.

The nursery, catering for 27 children with three staff, will continue until summer.

Church bosses said they made the decision because of competition and lack of finances.

Tim Horobin, partnership development officer in the Blackburn Diocese, said: "We are very sad that the nursery provision will have to close at the end of June.

"Applications have been made to major funders but we have had no success.

"The centre will remain open as a family centre, providing family support and other community activities, and hopefully in the future creche and other play facilities will be provided.

"It is sad that this decision has had to be taken, as the nursery has been run to a very high standard by highly motivated staff."

The Archdeacon of Blackburn, the Venerable John Hawley, added: "I want to pay tribute to the excellent nursery staff, and the efforts of the diocesan board for social responsibility to find funding to continue this work, in an area where parents need support.

"Sadly, it is difficult to find continuation funding. "