2300 back petition to save Libraries

2300 people have backed petitions calling for Lobley Hill and Ryton libraries to stay open.

Labour councillors in Gateshead want to close the two branches to save costs but opposition Liberal Democrat councillors launched the petitions to save the buildings from the axe.

The petitions will be handed in to Gateshead Council on Thursday 23rd February by Councillors and campaigners from both Lobley Hill and Ryton.

Ryton's Councillor Christine McHatton said, "This is the biggest petition we have ever collected in Ryton and it shows the strength of opinion on the ground. People want the library kept open."

Councillor Allison Chatto, whose ward covers part of Lobley Hill, said, "The loss of the library would be a devastating blow to Lobley Hill if it were to close."

Lobley Hill Lib Dem campaigner Susan Craig said, "We are battling hard to keep the library. With so many signatures collected we hope the Council will take notice."