Angry campaigners gathered outside county hall to protest against cuts which they argue will devastate public services.

Waving banners saying ‘protect the frontline’ more than 100 people made their voices heard as councillors debated next year’s budget.

They are meeting to discuss the severity of the cuts, and where they should be made.

Almost £180m will be slashed from funding for a range of services, leading to job losses.

Lesley Crowshaw, who cares for her disabled daughter, is dismayed by what this means for her.

“I get respite once a week, at Maplewood House in Bamber Bridge. Lancashire County Council plan to cut two of these homes,”

“I’d like to know what other care they’re offering which replaces them, because I can’t see how they will,” she said.

Mrs Crowshaw is part of Save Our Respite Establishments, which represents parent carers who depend on these centres.

Frontline services across the region will suffer, with social care, recycling centres and children’s homes all set to be affected.

Councillor Kevin Ellard joined with the protestors to criticise the plans.

“Inevitably major problems will be caused for the most vulnerable people, whether they’re adults or children,”

“It is good to see so many campaigning against these cuts, on behalf of the people who need the most support,” said the Labour Councillor.

This demonstration follows last Saturday’s march through the city centre by Preston Against Cuts.

Public and Commercial Services member Darryl Fryer was positive the protest would make a difference.

“I believe people power will affect this government, if we show them we don’t support them anymore then they’ll think again.”