CAMPAIGNERS are set to lobby Burnley Council leader Stuart Caddy over plans to cut funding for elderly and vulnerable people in the borough.

Opponents of the council's plans to cut more than £100,000 funding to over 50s clubs and community buildings say the proposals will hit the most vulnerable.

They are calling on the council to delay the cuts for a year so alternative funding can be sought, and will be raising their concerns with Coun Caddy at Rosegrove Library, Lowerhouse Lane, tomorrow morning.

The Lancashire Evening Telegraph revealed last year that the council, which is facing spending cuts of more than £1million, was proposing to withdraw support from both the network of over 50s groups and eight community buildings.

However suggestions to axe funding for the Blues Festival, one of Burnley's most popular events, and the Reach Community festival have been withdrawn.

According to the campaign group set up to petition the council, the cuts will mean many community facilities could face closure and elderly people paying more for meals.

Spokeswoman Julie Pritchard said: "We are appalled that Burnley Borough Council has proposed this course of action without any meaningful consultations, and without a clear plan to help us tackle the enormous challenges these huge cuts will bring.

"These cuts will hit the most vulnerable people in our communities the hardest, and the council should be doing all they can to protect the people in need. We wonder why they are singling out groups like ours for these savage cuts."

But a council spokesman said the authority wanted people to get involved in the running of community centres and is seeking opinions from potential partners in a review of its over 50s services.

He said: "Burnley Council recognises community buildings play a key role in strengthening local communities.

"We are, however, looking to transfer the management from the council to the community as we believe the potential for local people to become involved in the running of their local community building can lead to a greater sense of pride in, and responsibility for, that building.

"We are looking to develop community management committees who, with support and access to specialist information and advice, will be able to influence and shape the future of the community centres."