HUNDREDS of parents have lost their childcare as a chain of Glasgow nurseries announced imminent plans to shut.

Rising Stars childcare centres will cease operation on March 31, with parents given just weeks' notice.

The Easterhouse, Crownpoint, Gorbals, Pollok, plus Govan and Calton afterschool care centres are all expected to shut.

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Families were informed two weeks ago some of the zero to two-year-old rooms would be closing this week.

Children in the older rooms will remain in place until next month, however, worried parents have warned there aren't enough childcare spaces available for the youngsters.

Councillor Maureen Burke, whose ward includes the Easterhouse facility, described the situation as "heartbreaking".

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She told the Glasgow Times: "It's been a bit last minute to give out this information. It doesn't give parents enough time."

Jobs and Business Glasgow, who run the facilities, said it is working with Glasgow City Council in an attempt to place the pre-schoolers elsewhere.

A spokesperson said: “We apologise for any inconveniences we know the closure of the service will have on families.

“The business case review has been taking place for some time now and a search for a private childcare provider to take over the brand and estate has been unsuccessful in the current climate.

“It is unfortunately not viable to keep operating as a going concern.

“We are working with Glasgow City Council early years colleagues to support our families to help find alternative provision across the city.

“No employee will be facing compulsory redundancy and we will work with colleagues to find suitable alternative roles.”