Norwich gran takes on county council over day centres

27 October 2009

A BATTLING Norwich granny is taking on the might of Norfolk County Council over possible plans to close a much-loved city day centre.

Pensioner Barbara Wiltshire is leading a campaign against a proposal to axe the Silver Rooms, in Silver Street, which she says provides a lifeline for older people.

Along with a petition, which has more than 200 signatures, the retired machinist is planning a sit-in at the centre.

At the weekend she was out on her mobility scooter campaigning in the rain with the county's newest MP Chloe Smith, who helped by knocking on doors to drum up support.

The 72-year-old, who lives off Mousehold Street, said: “I feel very strongly about this. It's not just for me, it is for all the people like me who need that place. When people first heard rumours that it could close they were in tears. No one could tell us anything for sure which made it worse.”

“It's like a big family. When you go in there are hugs and kisses and lots of chat and laughter. For some people it's the only family they have - and even the staff join in,” she said.

A petition to save a similar city centre at Essex Rooms in Essex Street, has also been launched by Barbara Smith, of Melbourne Cottages, with the help of local councillor Stephen Little.

Mrs Smith who has been going there for 40 years said: “These rooms are my life. So many elderly people in the area depend on the centre for companionship and social activities and the food is always excellent. The staff and volunteers have given so much to the service, to lose it all would be unthinkable.”

Demonstrations are planned outside the meeting to decide the centre's fate at county hall on November 9 from 10.30am.