AROUND 80 families were scrambling for emergency childcare following the abrupt closure of a Johnstone nursery.

Weans World aftercare service in Brewery Street, was forced to shut its doors two working days before school resumed.

The closure was announced on Wednesday, August 10 and shocked parents were told that the service would no longer exist.

Many families relied on the service to allow them to continue to work whilst ensuring suitable care for their children.

It is claimed that owner Elizabeth Spiers was forced to close her business due to unpaid fees from those using the service, which costs £22 per day during the holidays and £12 during school term.

Council education bosses have since stepped in to help parents hit by the closure of the private childcare facility and are appealing for those affected to get in touch.

There will be a temporary service, while a more permanent solution is found, which will run from 3pm until 6pm on weekdays, until the end of the month.

Renfrewshire Council leader Mark Macmillan said: "When we heard of the difficulties parents had been left in during the first week of the new school term we wanted to step in to support them.

"While the business in question was privately-owned, as a parent myself I fully understand the importance of quality childcare provision.

"It is hugely important working parents are able to access affordable childcare.

"This interim facility will help them do that while we work with parents to help them find a longer-term solution which fits their individual needs."

Parents affected by closure are asked to call a special council hotline on 0141 618 5840 to find out more about alternative childcare provision.

Following the shock closure, Councillor Andy Doig, SNP for the Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, and Lochwinnoch Ward backed calls for Renfrewshire Council to step in for emergency action.

He said: "I was sad to see this facility in my ward go, but somewhat reassured by an e-mail from the Education Department on June 17 informing all Johnstone elected members that the users would be notified of the closure of the nursery service by July 15, but that the out of school service would continue.

"As soon as I heard of the crisis I e-mailed the CEO of Renfrewshire Council, and the Head of Education, calling for the council to provide an interim service until a new after school care provider could be found.

"This was either at Weans World, or in a suitable council run facility, such as the Thorn Primary, which is only a five minute walk away and also next to Johnstone train station, and on the main bus route.

"My demand for an interim solution was backed by both Mhairi Black MP, and Tom Arthur MSP. Despite the fact that Weans World was a private facility we all strongly believe that the council has a duty of care to the 80 families affected as they are all council tax payers in Renfrewshire.

"Two years ago there was a similar situation when LOSC folded in Lochwinnoch and I persuaded the council to provide an interim service as 40 families were affected. The people of Johnstone deserve no less.

"I would like to also say that whilst I know feelings are running high, I spoke to Elizabeth Speirs.

"She is devastated by events, is still worried about the staff and the parents, and herself is facing great financial challenges herself.

"I know things have been said on social media but this is a tragedy for all affected, so let us focus on trying to find a solution."