A village preschool which is ‘integral’ to parents and children’s lives needs thousands of pounds to pay for repair work, and is calling for the support of the ‘kindest place in Britain’.

Wear and tear over years of use means Congresbury Community Preschool needs to complete a £6,500 revamp to ensure it can continue to serve children taking their first steps into education.

The preschool has been running for almost three decades, with thousands of youngsters passing through its doors.

Preschool management are calling for cash support from Congresbury residents, with money raised earmarked to pay for a new roof for a cabin used to care for children aged one to two.

Deputy manager Rachel Burford said: “The preschool has been an integral part of Congresbury life for more than 25 years, providing early-years education to thousands of children from our community.

“In order to continue to flourish we need to ensure our beloved cabin is fit for purpose.

“Unfortunately it requires major maintenance which needs addressing imminently.

“In 2016 Congresbury made national news and was quoted as ‘the kindest village in Britain’ after the Love Congresbury random acts of kindness campaign.

“The preschool is putting this to the test and we are asking for your help.

“If you are able to donate your time to help with maintenance, or are able to offer financial assistance, we would love to hear from you.”

Staff are in the process of organising several fundraising events to cover the repair bill, and an online funding plea has already been backed to the tune of £750.

The preschool was facing a larger repair bill, with the cabin’s windows also needing to be replaced, but Congresbury-based firm Brorn Windows stepped in to help, saving it thousands.

Ms Burford added: “Brorn Windows has kindly donated its time and resources to fully refurbish the cabin windows.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the firm for its generosity.”

To donate visit www.gofundme.com/congresbury-preschool-needs-you