Lib Dems Launch Petition To Stop Tory Axe Falling On Outdoor Education Centres

12.30.48pm GMT Mon 27th Nov 2006

Concerned parent, Neil Currie (left) with Richard Burt and Malvern West Councillor Tony Williams (right), saying "No" to the Tory axe on funding for Malvern Outdoor Education Centre.

West Worcestershire Liberal Democrats have launched a petition to stop the Tory axe falling on funds for Malvern and Llanrug Outdoor Education Centres.

Pledges to support the campaign to save the centres have been posted through doors across the county in an effort to persuade the Conservative-run County Council to reverse plans to save £700,000 on the centres as part of an £18million package of cuts.

District Councillor Tony Williams joined West Worcestershire's Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate, Richard Burt, and Outdoor Education campaigner, Neil Currie, in a protest outside Malvern Outdoor Education Centre last Saturday.

The Malvern centre falls within Councillor Williams ward, and he has already proposed a motion opposing the County Council cuts which was approved at a meeting of Malvern Hills District Council.

"Worcestershire County Council spends over £350million each year on education. It is incredibly short sighted of the Conservatives to cut funding for such a vital activity that benefits thousands of children across the county," said Tony Williams.

Richard Burt added: "Outdoor Education is not just an adventure holiday. It helps build self-esteem, confidence and teamwork outside the classroom and helps students prepare better for the challenges of adult life. It would be a tragedy to lose the quality of service currently provided by teaching staff at the centres."