A POPULAR soft play area will close this weekend after 13 years of helping children and their families celebrate their birthdays.

Partyman World will close the doors to its site on Repton Close on Sunday for the final time - but bosses have insisted it will re-open with a new base.

The relocation will take place “very soon” but owners have remained tight lipped on the new location.

Partyman World has been at it’s current venue Close since 2007.

Bosses also refused to be drawn on reasons for the move.

A spokesman for the business, said: “We are sad to announce that we will be closing our doors on Sunday September 27 at 6.30pm.

“However, we are pleased to announce this will be the beginning of a new chapter and we will be relocating to our new site in Basildon very very soon.

“We would like to thank all the amazing families who have helped us create so many amazing memories since 2007.”

Parents took to social media to express their sadness, with some expressing concerns over the payment of monthly memberships.

One said: “Had loads of fun there over the years, my kids when they were young loved it, even had my 30th there. Good luck on the move.”

Vicky Walker, 61, who used to regularly visit Partyman World with her two daughters, added: “The kids used to absolutely love playing here. Even though they’re grown up now, I remember how excited they used to get.

“Like a lot of the kids, their favourite was always Jelly Mountain.

“It will be interesting to see where they go to next.”

The spokesman continued: “We look forward to welcoming you back in the future at our new location.

“If you have any queries or require any further information please refer to our FAQ’s on our website or email help@partyman.co.uk

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our staff for their cooperation during this period of relocating. Goodbye for now. We are still taking bookings up until Sunday if you want to book visit our website and come and see us one last time before we close at Repton Close.”