The manager of a pre-school has said a tearful goodbye after serving parents and children in St Mary Cray for 24 years.

Happy Pre-School had its final on Friday (March 22) after being told it can no longer use St Andrew’s Church in Lower Road.

The school opened in 1995 and moved to temporary accommodation in Oasis Community Hub at the end of last year following a flood.

READ MORE: Happy Pre-School to close after losing St Andrew's Church home

However, Joyce Alimo, who set up the pre-school, said they were no longer welcome back into the church.

"This is a terrible time for us," she told News Shopper. "Despite everyone’s efforts, nobody could save us.

"At the moment I am so broken."

She hosted a party for the children on Friday to mark the last day and described the emotional scenes as well-wishers came to say goodbye.

Joyce said: "We had a lot of tears. I have been surrounded by beautiful messages, cards and flowers. I want to thank everyone who supported us.

"The love and warmth is overwhelming."

Parents, grandparents and even former guardians of past pupils came on Friday in a show of solidarity to Joyce and her team.

ALSO: Parents of children at Happy-Pre School speak out after closure

Nine staff members have been made redundant and Joyce said she hasn’t had time to think about what you she will do next.

"It is the saddest day of my career," she said. "I can’t think that far ahead. I’m still not sleeping."

On a positive note, Joyce said working at Happy-Pre School has been the time of her life.

"I am a lucky one," she said. "I got a job that I loved doing. I love working with children and that is my passion. I wanted to make a change."

News Shopper understands many of the 60 children, 30 per cent of whom are disabled, have not found alternative places.