PROTESTERS campaigning against the closure of the Lime Kiln leisure centre said there is no time to be complacent.

Yesterday they were told that North Wiltshire Leisure Ltd, which runs the Wootton Bassett centre, will continue to manage it until March 31, 2007.

But Brian Mantel, who is leading the centre's Save Our Sport campaign, said they needed to work out their plan of action.

"We held a meeting last night and have set up a committee and working groups to look at the different options available to us," he said.

"We are pleased with the announcement because we didn't think we would get that long to take stock, but four months is not that long and we must not get complacent."

The committee is being chaired by MP James Gray.

"I think having someone like him leading us will be beneficial," said Mr Mantel.

Tim Magness, who runs the Otters swimming group that uses the centre, was also at last night's meeting.

He said that the NWLL statement had cleared up a number of the group's concerns.

"We did not know the timescale we were looking at before, and now we do," he said.

"We just need to weigh up our options and see where we go from here."

The committee, which is setting up a website, is due to meet again on Sunday.

In the NWLL statement, chairman Michael Buckley said: "We hope this period of stability will afford affected parties an opportunity to explore options for any proposed plans they might have for continued service delivery at these sites."

And despite the minor victory, members of the Lime Kiln leisure centre are still planning to launch petitions against the closure and lobby their town council.

"We will be making sure our voice is heard at the next town council meeting," said Mr Magness. "And I am sure one or two people will have plenty to say on the matter."

The group is still looking for helpers to assist with the campaign. They would like to hear from anyone with legal or business experience, or anyone who would like to help with making banners and other logistical needs. Anybody interested should contact the Lime Kiln centre on 01793 852197.

Centre stage

Nov 23: A meeting is held to decide the future of the Cricklade leisure centre.

Nov 24: Cash-strapped North Wilts Leisure Ltd (NWLL) announces that it plans to shut down the centre in December.

Nov 26: A public meeting is held at Cricklade leisure centre, while hundreds of residents turn out for protest meeting in Lime Kiln sports hall.

Nov 27: Hundreds of protesters gather outside the centre waving placards.

Nov 29: Olympic hopeful swimmer Jazz Carlin joins the Wootton Bassett fight .

Nov 30: NWLL issues a statement saying that they will manage the centre until March 31, 2007 to give interested parties a chance to explore the options available. The groups that use the Wootton Bassett centre hold a meeting to decide what they will do next. A committee is set up, to be chaired by MP James Gray.

Dec 1: The Cricklade group stage a protest march from St Sampson's school.