YOUNGSTERS in Blockley have protested at the planned withdrawal of the fortnightly mobile library service in the village.

The children, with their hand-drawn placards, gathered to greet the “book bus” when it made one of the few remaining visits to Springfield, Blockley, last Thursday.

The mobile library is due to make its last visit to the north Cotswolds on Thursday, July 14, after being axed by Gloucestershire County Council as part of its cost-cutting plans.

Asked about his reaction to the closure of the bus service, one regular user of the library, six-year-old Callum Sollis of Springfield, said: “I’m a bit disappointed. I like getting books. I come here every time except when I’m away on holiday.”

His dad, Mark Sollis, said: “The library service is very handy for Callum and his brother Jordan because I can’t drive and my wife’s at work until 6pm most nights. They love reading and it’s good for their school work.”

Liz Pritchard, an adult user of the mobile library from Chapel Lane, Blockley, backed the children’s concerns. “I think it’s essential for the children. If you get people reading at this age you get them reading for life,” she said.

Gay Thompson, of High Street, Blockley, said: “I remember when Blockley had a library, where the shop and café are now. It was fantastic for the kids to go to when they came home from school. It’s so important; this is the vital stage.”

Parents Mark and Peggy Newton of Station Road, Blockley, said their four children, Mily, aged 10, Francesca, nine, and seven-year-old twins Alfie and Ruby loved using the mobile library.

GCC cabinet member for libraries Councillor Antonia Noble said: “Before any mobile library services are withdrawn, we will be talking to ensure we assess the needs of those affected.”