THE latest local casualty of austerity is children’s centres. If ever there was a misguided policy, this is it.

Last Thursday, along with Councillor Knight, I visited Bellefield Children’s Centre, Trowbridge. It was a pleasure to be there.

The atmosphere was marvellous. Mothers, babies and young children, all mixing together and learning from each other. There really was a sense of companionship, sharing and support.

As I understand it, social isolation is often a major concern with young mothers. Well organised and resourced children’s centres would seem to be the ideal antidote, as well as laying down the basis for well adjusted childhood.

Money carefully spent here can improve life for all.

Yet now much of this is being put at risk. The received County Hall wisdom is to close down two out of the three centres in Trowbridge and to totally do away with the one in Bradford on Avon.

I will be attending Wiltshire Council Cabinet on Tuesday December 15 to strongly object to this.

If you feel the same way, please support the online petition.

Simply google: change petition Trowbridge children centres.

Please allow common sense to prevail. Thank you.

Jeff Osborn, Independent Wiltshire Councillor, Chepston Place, Trowbridge