A nursery has been shut down by Ofsted officials amid fears children "may be at risk of harm".

Godinton Playschool, in Ashford, has been suspended for six weeks to allow Ofsted time to investigate.

Inspectors believe that a child attending the nursery may be exposed to a risk or harm and say the suspension period will also allow the childcare provider time to resolve any issues they uncover.

Officials forced the nursery to close down on Friday but a note posted outside the premises said that the suspension could be lifted before the six weeks were up if they were satisfied children were no longer at risk.

Ofsted last inspected the nursery in 2017, when it was given a rating of ‘good’. The inspection body’s website notes that the playschool is closed but gives no further information.

Parents say no warning was given regarding the closure and no mention of it was made when they picked up their children yesterday afternoon.

Then several hours later they received an email from the playschool to advise them that the service would “unfortunately be closed until further notice”.

Their email continued: “We understand that this will be concerning for you, however due to an ongoing investigation we are unable to answer any questions as it could prejudice this.”

The nursery, which operates from Godinton Village Hall, has been running for more than 25 years.

One parent, who did not want to be named, told KentOnline: “What is really scary for us a parents is not knowing and particularly with what you hear about happening at other childcare providers.

“We just want to know why this has happened.”

Godinton Playschool and Ofsted have both been approached for further comment.