CAMPAIGNERS who want to keep a library in Leominster took to the streets last week to obtain more than 400 signatures on a petition.

A group of teenagers taking part in the National Citizen Service (NCS) Engage4Life programme set up a stall in the Corn Square as part of their social action project.

They chose Leominster Library as their campaign topic in light of Herefordshire Council proposals which could see the library 'withdrawn' along with its associated customer services and access to public computers.

Lucy White, team leader, said: "We aimed to get members of the public to sign our petition, as well as read the council's proposed budget and voice their opinions on the matter.

"We also had a number of mini games and competitions with prizes to be won. In the space of five hours we managed to get more than 400 signatures and had excellent support from members of Friends of Leominster Library (FoLL) and local town councillors including the mayor, Councillor Felicity Norman."

Donations were also made from a number of local businesses.

Meanwhile, the Friends of Leominster Library is encouraging people to fill in the council's questionnaire and sign an e-petition calling for the plans to be halted.

Jimmy Lindsay, chairman of the organisation, said: "It's a social issue in as much as that, in Leominster, the library is very much a hub of the local community.

"It's used by people of all ages. We are doing our best to put forward a persuasive case to the council and we are hoping that we get some sort of favourable outcome."

A public meeting is to be held at Leominster Library on Thursday (August 27) at 5pm. Representatives from Ross-on-Wye and Hereford will also be attending.

The petition can be found online at https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/save-herefordshire-libraries-2 and the council's questionnaire can be found in the library and online.