A soft play centre near Ely that has been running free sessions for children with special education needs for 11 years, alongside its regular day-to-day activities, is "at crisis point". 

Treetops, which is based at Lancaster Way Business Park, Witchford, "drastically" needs the support families in the local area", according to company director Adam Pickup. 

He said: "We have been successfully trading for 11 years and self-funding SEN sessions and SEN school visits, which we love doing. 

"However, having survived through the pandemic, at the moment we are pretty much at crisis point and really need help from members of the public." 

He said the financial challenges have been caused by "a perfect storm of high electricity and utility costs in a big building, spiralling food inflation, paying off Covid-19 debt, increase to minimum wage, business rates and high rent combined with our customers having far less disposable income".

However, Mr Pickup, who has written to local MP Lucy Frazer to try and gain her support, said he and the team are "determined to remain part of the local community".

In an attempt to "try to safeguard our work with the Special Educational Needs sector", he added that Treetops have set up a charitable Community Interest Company to attempt to raise funds. 

"This would enable us to continue and improve our work with additional needs, voluntary and local SEN schools."

He added that Treetops is a great activity for all weathers: "Please remember we are here when the sun is shining as well as when its raining, buy food from us, buy a coffee, book your party with us, meet your friends here.

"It's a great place for babies to children to exercise, socialise and just play in a safe environment.

"We have been forced to make a slight increase to our prices for over ones of £1 but it is still affordable." 

Visit the Treetops Ely website to book a session.