A children’s play café in Petersfield town centre is closing today with a bang.

Today (Saturday, July 26) is a sad one for many parents as Little Leaf Play Café is closing after four years of fun and games on the High Street.

But there’s been love and laughter right to the end, with a joyous appearance by children’s entertainer Adam the Magic Music Man bringing smiles to everyone despite the heartbreak.

And corks will be popping this afternoon with an “everything must go” auction and final toast before the gavel is brought down.

Proprietor Lucy Graham has thanked parents and customers over the last four years for their support.

Business was brisk after the pandemic but the combination of rising rent and business rates, coupled with a drop in footfall and competition elsewhere, forced her hand.

She said: “It’s a bit of everything as rates have doubled, rent is going up 40 per cent and footfall has definitely been impacted.

“We used to have quite a wide catchment because there was nothing like this nearby, but since we’ve opened a few others have popped up elsewhere so we’re not so niche anymore.

“The rent rise is another thing but I get it because they’re also a business and have to make money, too.”

Highlights of the final day included free face painting and the Adam and Magic Man performance, with the entertainer thanked for making what could have been a “down day” so joyful.

And then it’s over to the adults at 4.30pm with bidding and bubbly concluding the final day’s business.

Lucy doesn’t know what the future holds aside from a much-needed rest, but the Little Leaf Play Café will always hold a big place in the hearts of many.

She added: “It’s been a privilege being here – thank you to everyone.”