Nursery owner who has been 'sole of the community' retires

Francine Leslie, owner of Little Browsers, has worked at the pre-school since it opened and took it over in 2010, becoming the ‘driving force.’

A party was held on Thursday, July 22, to celebrate Francine and staff, children and parents were invited.

The Little Browsers pre-school community will miss Francine greatly.

Some pre-schoolers commented on Francine leaving:

Jenson said he will miss everything about Francine and he likes the pictures she draws, and she is kind to him.

Harper said: ‘‘Francine is a good teacher and she loves every single child.’’

Myla said she loves Francine ‘the whole world’ and will miss her lots.

Rubin said to tell her he loves her and he will miss her.

Staff also wanted to bid Francine farewell.

Children, staff and parents have bid farewell to Francine, the 'sole of the community'.

Alison Baxter said: ‘‘Francine made me feel so welcome when I arrived.

‘‘I'd like to thank her for the opportunities she has given to me and wish her all the happiness.

‘‘It’s been a pleasure to work for her.

Elisha Shaw: ‘Thank you for all your support and guidance throughout our time together and thank you for the opportunity to work within your team.

‘‘I will miss you thank you for looking after the girls they have learnt lots from you.

‘‘Thank you for making me part of your family.

Denise McKenna: ‘‘I first met Francine at St Bridgets mums and tots when I was a childminder and she was there doing some craft activities where we became friends and went on to do our NVQ3 together.

‘‘She talked me into going to work with her and I joined the team in 2002 where Francine has been a fantastic boss/friend and everything she has done has been to benefit the children.

‘‘She will be missed by myself and the children who all love her.’’

Ann Batley: ‘‘Where to even start having worked alongside Francine now for over 15 years we have been through every emotion together.

‘‘We enjoyed spending time together in preschool and out.

‘‘I value all the experiences we have been through the good the bad and the ugly.

‘‘We have laughed and cried but throughout supported each other.

‘‘I just want Francine to remember without stupid people we have no one to laugh at.

‘‘You will be truly missed and it has been a pleasure no place I would rather be than Little Browsers Preschool.’’

Finally, parents wanted to thank Francine.

Claire Bamber: ‘‘Having known Francine for around 8 years she has not only become a friend but also like family.

‘‘She always has a caring and loving way with both children in her care and their parents.

‘‘We as a family will miss seeing her in nursery greatly but wish her all the happiness and love in her retirement.’’

Kylie Logsdon: ‘‘I'd like to say a big thank you to Francine on behalf of myself and my three children.

‘‘We first met when my oldest son attended the preschool 14 years ago!

‘‘Since then my other 2 children have been to Francine at little browsers, all 3 of them loved their time with Francine and the team and I am truly grateful for all the love and care she has shown them .

‘‘For the last 3 years I have worked with Francine whilst studying to start my own career in childcare.

‘‘Francine has supported me through my level 2 and level 3. Thank you for Everything, we will miss you. Hope you enjoy some relaxing time off.’’