Anti-cuts cards - Young playcentre-goers at the Town Hall to protest at closure threats

Published: 17 February 2011
by JOSIE HINTON

COUNCILLORS received hand-delivered Valentine’s cards on Friday when children from play centres visited the Town Hall.

Children from Plot 10 in Somers Town, The Winch in Swiss Cottage, Talacre in Kentish Town and Three Acres in Belsize Park travelled to King’s Cross to deliver hand-made cards with messages showing the strength of feeling over the threat to play centres.

Up to 80 per cent of the budget for play provision could be cut, making it likely that most after-school and holiday clubs will be forced to close. No councillors were available to receive the cards, but they were put in the internal mail.

Harley Harrison, 12, who has been visiting Plot 10 since she was six, explained why it should be saved. “You can feel the atmos­phere when you walk in,” she said. “Every­one is laughing, playing, doing their homework. They take people off the streets and give them somewhere safe to play. It’s a happy place.”

Nine-year-old Cassey Cabral, who goes to The Winch five days a week, added: “My mum had a stroke and is awaiting an operation so it is hard for her to look after me. The Winch looks after me while she can get help and it gives her a break.”

And Adam Miah, 10, who goes to Talacre, said: “Without the centre I would have to go home. At home you just watch TV and sit doing nothing, but at Talacre I play football twice a week and see my friends.” 

A decision on the cuts consultation is expected on February 28.