The nursery school attended by Bolton comedians Peter Kay and Paddy McGuinness has been earmarked for closure.

Education chiefs have put forward proposals to close Alexandra Nursery in Daubhill blaming falling numbers leaving the nursery in the red.

It could close as early as August 2023.

The proposals come just months after the controversial decision was made to shut Harvey Nursery.

Alexandra Nursery is also a maintained nursery and has been opened since 1973.

It is an Ofsted rated good nursery, with its most recent inspection report stating ‘children love their nursery.”

A spokesman for Bolton Council said: “Unfortunately, Alexandra Maintained Nursery School has seen a consistent decline in the number of children on-roll in recent years, with this trend set to continue in the years to come.

“Because of these low numbers, and the way the government funds maintained nursery schools, the school’s budget is in deficit.

“The chair of governors and governing body have explored a number of options in order to put the nursery on a financially sustainable footing.

“These have not proved successful, and the chair of governors has approached the council for support with a proposed closure of the nursery.”

They continued: “The proposals are now subject to a consultation. No final decision has been taken and all views will be taken into account.

READ MORE: Nursery where Peter Kay and Paddy McGuinness met celebrates famous history

Harvey Nursery to close despite long campaign

“The governors noted that the consultation is not a reflection on the quality of provision, which is valued and graded ‘good’ by Ofsted, the decision is about financial sustainability.

“Should it go ahead, the nursery would close at the end of August 2023 and families would be fully supported to find a suitable alternative from the many local providers.”

In 2013, the nursery had a big celebration marking its 40th anniversary.

At the time headteacher Barbara Kenny said: “When Peter was presented the Royal Variety Show a few years ago he introduced Paddy McGuinness and said that they became friends when they first met at Alexandra Nursery.

"Last year Peter was back at the nursery taking pictures and I ran out to talk to him and had my picture taken with him.

“Children who come here go on to do great things.”

Alexandra Nursery School’s consultation is open until December 12 this year. For further details visit https://www.bolton.gov.uk/directory-record/3548/alexandra-maintained-nursery-proposed-closure