Users of a centre for mothers and youngsters have been given just a few weeks' notice to find a new home.

The St Mary's Centre, based in the canteen of St Mary's School in Church Green, Witney, has provided a base for groups providing activities such as music, arts and crafts for under-fives for several years. It is also the base for a worker from social services.

Annie Foggett, who runs a fortnightly music session there, said: "We have got to find somewhere by the New Year, which is very short notice. "Both the Congregational Church and the Methodist Church were suggested as possible alternatives and they are being very helpful, but it will cost more. I will have to put the cost up from £1 to £1.50.

"This is a place where mothers can come and meet other mums. It's a valuable service as many people move into this area and do not have family and friends and feel very isolated."

Mum Ishbel Newman said: "I only moved to Witney a year ago and really enjoy coming. I meet a lot of people and get out and the children get to mix with other children." The move is necessary as a social worker based at the centre had moved. Two new ones will be based in different offices in the town.

Helen Marshall, who runs a music session at the centre for about 15 children, said: "There is the Government on one hand saying there should be more schemes like this and yet we are being given very short notice to move to premises which will cost us more."

Social services spokesman Sherry Bishop said: "The school has told us groups can continue to use the canteen whilst they look, but we have set a deadline of February."

Story date: Wednesday 01 December

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