CAMPAIGNERS fighting for the One Step Ahead centre to be kept open received a round of applause when a petition was presented to the council.

Leslie Lancett, whose daughter has used One Step Ahead for many years, has collected 2,400 signatures from people.

One Step Ahead is a day centre for adults with learning difficulties in South Marston.

He told last night’s meeting: “Most of the people were aghast that the council could even consider closing such as vital facility.”

He described it as a ‘home from home’ for people who used the service and added that it was a ‘life line‘ for carers by giving them vital respite.

“We already accept more than our fair share of pain. To close One Step Ahead would be disastrous to the service users and carers.”

Coun Peter Mallinson, cabinet member for adult social care, insisted the service would not be closing.

“I give you my assurance there are no plans to close One Step Ahead.

“But we are reviewing how we look at day services in general.”

He put forward a motion for the council to vote on that gave an assurance that the service would not close.

Coun Andy Harrison (Lib Dem) added an assurance that any changes to the service should come before the council to be scrutinised before being voted through.