The manager of a nursery at Mamhilad Park Estate has become its new owner after the founders decided to “pass the baton” after 23 years in charge.
Becky Gregory, who lives in Sebastopol, has taken ownership of Little Stars Nursery at Mamhilad after working there for eight years.
The nursery cares for 65 children aged between six weeks and five years every day and supports more than 100 local families. Its team of 25 full- and part-time staff will all remain in place under Becky’s ownership.
Becky joined the nursery while studying for a degree in Childhood Studies at Aberystwyth University. After roles leading the baby and toddler rooms, she went on to become nursery manager for the owners, Emma Matthews and Marie Ellis-Jones.
Little Stars Mamhilad
She said: “They later approached me about buying Little Stars Mamhilad and, while that felt a bit daunting at first, I soon thought it was the perfect next step for me.
“I know the building and the operations inside out and, most importantly, I know the children and the team – who are brilliant and have the highest standards of care. Plus, Little Stars has a track record of outstanding inspections and we have won so many awards – I soon realised it was the ideal scenario.
“I was a little apprehensive about the announcement as Emma and Marie established and then ran the nursery so successfully for so long, but everyone has been so positive and supportive – and reassured, I think, about the continuity this brings.
Peter Downes, of Johnsey Estates, which owns and manages Mamhilad Park Estate, said: “The nursery is an important part of life here, for those who work on the estate and in the local area.
“We’ve always been really proud to have such a well-regarded childcare offer on-site and are delighted that the Little Stars ownership has transferred to an equally well-regarded, trusted new owner in Becky. We wish her every success and will do everything we can to support her.”
While Becky has no immediate plans to make changes, she said she wants staff, parents and children to help shape future developments.
In a Facebook post, the nursery’s previous owners said, “…the time is right to pass the baton to Becky…”