Villagers in Lympstone are being asked to help save a vital facility for future generations.

Lympstone Preschool had hoped a cash injection from the Armed Forces Covenant Grant Scheme would let it build new headquarters on land at the village hall, securing its future. However, it has now seen its grant application turned down, and so is turning to the community for help.

The preschool, which currently uses a room in the village hall, has been given £3,000 by Lympstone Parish Council to allow it to keep running until summer 2017, but unless a permanent solution is found by then, it will face closure.

District and parish councillor Rob Longhurst, who is leading the fundraising effort, says he is confident that of the £250,000 needed, £150,000 can be raised through grants.

This leaves £100,000, which is being sought from the community.

Mr Longhurst said: “If every family in the village could donate just a few pounds to support our campaign, we would be able to raise the funds needed to go ahead with our vital preschool saving plans.”

Mr Longhurst says the appeal is a chance for Lympstone residents to help the village’s future by providing for its youngest residents.

He said: “Lympstone is known to be a thriving community, indeed a ‘community powerhouse’, and no ‘powerhouse’ can exist without fuel and our fuel, in this case, is our young. Quite frankly, as we get older, we will become more and more dependent on them for our own survival.”

The proposed facility would be on land donated by the parish council, allowing the preschool to operate rent-free. To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/x65am69z, or pick up a standing order form from Lympstone’s Central Stores.

For more information, call Mr Longhurst on 01395 263495, or email rlonghurst@eastdevon.gov.uk