DEVASTATED parents have vowed to save a Paisley nursery that is earmarked for closure.

Bosses at Rainbow Nursery, in Shortroods, called parents of 68 pupils to a meeting this week and delivered the shock news the doors are to be shut forever.

The facility, run by Childcare First Ltd, will close on June 30, just weeks before Scotland nearly doubles the provision of free childcare hours for parents.

Renfrewshire Council has said it is supporting the nursery after an agreed reduction to funding back in 2018.

But parents are furious about the planned closure, with more than 1,200 signing a petition within hours in a bid to save the centre.

Angry mum Natalie Johnston said: “I am utterly devastated at this news. Rainbow Nursery is situated at the heart of the community and delivers an impeccable service to the children that attend and also the parents who send their children.

“The staff are trustworthy, professional and, with 23 years of experience in the industry, they know exactly what they are doing.

“The need is absolutely there and this is proven in the fact that the nursery is currently at full capacity, with a healthy waiting list.”

A Renfrewshire Council spokeswoman said: “We are aware of Childcare First’s decision to close Rainbow Nursery and are continuing to support the management team.

"This includes a proposal to provide council funding to enable the nursery to remain open until the end of the school year. This will ensure the best possible transition for children who are moving to primary school.

"We will also work with families to ensure they can secure suitable alternative provision for all children who currently attend Rainbow Nursery.

“Our commitment to the nursery team also includes a guarantee to interview all nursery staff for early years childcare posts with the council.

"A phased reduction to Childcare First’s grant funding was agreed in 2018.”