Angry parents have slammed Ofsted after a village playgroup which has been running for 36 years had funding removed after an "Inadequate" inspection.

There are fears that Moor Lane Playgroup, in Downley, could be forced to close down after government funding was cut for the "foreseeable future".

Parents have criticised the ruling and show their support for 70-year-old manager Cathy Piercy, the "pillar of the community" who has been running the group for decades.

Danae Bodycot said: "If it were to close down, it would be detrimental not only to us - parents and kids - but also to the community as a whole."

She added: "We demand Ofsted re-evaluate their decision - It's complete and utter rubbish.

"The parents and teachers of Moor Lane Playgroup are devastated to know that this Ofsted report could lead to permanent closure and say they have other concerns.”

Cathy Piercy has been owner of the Moor Lane Playgroup since 1985. At the age of 70, she refuses to be defeated by this, even considering to fund the playgroup herself.

Mrs Piercy said: "I have been doing this job since 1985, and in that time I have received countless amounts of Ofsted inspections over the years and not once have there been any issues - I simply don't understand it."

Mother of two, Mrs Keene, said: "As parents, we know our children are safe in the care of Cathy Piercy and we will lobby our local MP's for as long as it takes until Ofsted produces a fair and accurate portrayal of Moor Lane Playgroup. If worst comes to worst, we will go down fighting."

The future of Moor Lane Playgroup remains uncertain, but the community spirit and drive to combat closure remains strong.

Mrs Piercy said: "I'd like to thank all the parents for their support."

Reasons behind finding the playgroup "inadequate" were included in the Ofsted report.

These suggest leaders do not follow "robust recruitment procedures to ensure the suitability of those employed", the group is not meeting the Early Years Foundation Stage and they suggest that the children's welfare is not adequately safeguarded.

The report adds that more work needs to be done to identify the areas to improve and that on occasion noise level rises, disturbing some children's concentration.