I am writing to put the record straight concerning my role and that of the county and district councils in trying to assist the Abacus Nursery at Witney to secure alternative accommodation.

The proprietors were assisted by the county council's child care development team from the point we first heard that Abingdon & Witney College would not provide accommodation for the nursery, all the way to the unfortunate conclusion we have now reached.

Among other things, we: Supported the search for a secure long-term alternative location Lobbied the college to provide premises for longer - the college refused Explored every school in Witney in relation to the availability of appropriate space, into which Abacus could locate temporarily Worked with West Oxfordshire District Council to attempt to secure a site, and a temporary classroom building for the nursery.

So, while the pace of our efforts increased, it is not the case that it was, in any sense, a "rush".

In taking these steps to support Abacus, we were criticised by other private nursery providers in the area, for interfering in this competitive business.

Our duty is to ensure there are sufficient child care places for young children in Witney, and we would take the same action again.

We are very sad to lose this excellent provision in Witney, and to see the disruption this has caused to parents, children and staff.

LOUISE CHAPMAN (Councillor) Cabinet member for children, young people and families Oxfordshire County Council