Treetops Nursery
Liverpool
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Summary
Treetops Nursery Bootle is one of the most sought-after childcare settings in Sefton — fully occupied, with a waiting list, and a reputation that speaks for itself.
When David and Alix Bedford approached River Capital in 2022, they had a clear plan, deep expertise, and the drive to build something of their own. River Capital backed their ambition with a £100,000 Merseyside Loan and Equity Fund loan alongside NatWest financing to acquire an established nursery on Irlam Road in Bootle — trading as 1st Steps Day Nursery, an Outstanding-rated setting with nearly two decades in the community.
Alix brought 20+ years in childcare, most recently guiding Orchard Day Nursery in Knowsley to successive Outstanding Ofsted ratings. David took on the commercial side, giving Alix the space to focus on what she does best. Together they managed the transition carefully — retaining staff, reassuring families, and building from a position of trust.
Treetops now operates at full capacity with a waiting list, and the loan has been repaid in full ahead of its five-year term.
“It was not what we expected of business finance — this was the personal support of business partners who were there to help us succeed.”
David and Alix Bedford: Treetops Nursery
