A PRE-SCHOOL in Ashburton has launched an appeal to raise £40,000 for structural repairs.,

The not-for-profit Woodlanders Pre-School had secured a grant to fund improvements and expand to offer places to under two-year-olds.

But during the major renovations which were completed last summer, the unexpected structural issues were discovered.

Now the pre-school needs an extra £40,000 to pay for a new boiler and replacement ceiling.

The pre-school has thrived in the old primary school building so far thanks to the generosity of the town of Ashburton and St Lawrence Chapel.

Any profits were used to maintain the ‘cherished’ facilities.

The rennovation includde the demolition of toilets and kitchen and the construction of new toilets with updated drainage, a modern kitchen and a dedicated sleep room for the youngest babies.

Three large knock throughs, creating ramps and making significant modifications have all addressed accessibility.

But during the renovations, the builders discovered some unexpected issues with the old buildings.

A structural engineer advised the internal ceilings require complete replacement.

A spokesman explained: ‘We have replaced the lathe and plaster ceilings and needed to install a new commercial boiler to heat the newly created open play play area for the children.

‘Unfortunately, our grant was not sufficient to cover these essential upgrades.

‘We kindly ask for your support in helping us pay the builders for all their hard work in finishing off this project.

'Thank you for your continued support to allow us to provide essential childcare in the town of Ashburton.’