Wiggy's World in Abingdon closes on September 19 -- with the owner blaming the twin effects of crippling insurance costs and the hot summer.

Barry Hopkins with Olivia Bucknell, three

The centre in Audlett Drive has been sold to Slough company Snakes and Ladders. After refurbishment it is due to reopen in early December.

Only three of the centre's 50 full and part-time staff have been told their jobs are safe -- the rest will have to re-apply.

During the last seven years Barry Hopkins has spent more than £100,000 on the play centre, but says he has been driven to sell the business for about half the amount he has invested.

"I have had to increase prices and this year's hot summer hasn't helped. Attendances have fallen simply because children like playing outdoors in the fine weather.

"I'm the only person who likes a rainy summer.

"The weather has been lousy. The worry of increased insurance premiums and falling revenue has forced my hand," he said.

The problem follows a general downturn in the insurance sector since the September 11 terrorist attacks two years ago, and falls on the stock markets. Insurance companies say they have to pass on the costs in higher premiums.

Mr Hopkins, a former electrician, fireman and children's entertainer from Harcourt Road, Wantage, set up the centre seven years ago.

Regular visitor Lisa Dix, of Farm Road, Abingdon, who takes her son Lewis, five, to toddler sessions, said: "There is so much variety and the children love it. We have fears that the new owners won't continue with the sessions -- but parents are urging them to continue."