A NURSERY manager at a Halesowen pre-school playgroup, who is on long term leave, is at the centre of a police investigation.

Laura Berry, manager of the playgroup based at Lapal Primary School, is being investigated over alleged harassment of a former lover.

The 36-year-old was arrested in January and is currently on bail pending the outcome of police inquires.

Deputy manager Emma Clarke refused to confirm if Mrs Berry was on leave from the playgroup, which is run as a charitable trust, because of the investigation Andrew Nock, chairman of the Lapal Pre-school Committee, said: “We are aware of the ongoing police investigation involving a staff member.

“We feel that at this time it is inappropriate to comment until the conclusion of the investigation.”

A West Midlands Police spokesman confirmed Mrs Berry had been arrested.

He said: “Police have arrested a 36-year-old woman from Halesowen as part of an investigation into allegations, made by an ex-partner, of harassment.

“She was arrested by officers from West Midlands Police’s Public Protection Unit on Saturday January 9 2016 and is currently on bail while further inquiries take place.”

The playgroup, which is closing at the school and moving to the Howley Grange Scout Hut will open there in September as Lapal Grange Pre-school Ltd.

Mrs Berry is not listed as a director of the new company.