Stroud Against the Government's Cuts

We went down to attend the Stroud Against the Cuts march this morning, ending up here at the Stroud Subscription Rooms forecourt.

A BBC Gloucestershire local radio Producer, who knew Helena, asked me if I could take some pictures for them to use on their website. I have sent him a few images which they might find useful.

There was a good turn-out for the speeches with very heart felt and vocal support. In particular there was massive anger at the proposals to decimate the Gloucestershire County Library services. We absolutely need books.

There were at least 8 Town councillors present, including the Deputy Mayor, as well as David Drew, our last Labour MP, and Martin Whiteside, the Green Party's parliamentary candidate. All ages came; pensioners, students, families and us.

I don't know what to say, except that we must all get involved in saving our community and nation from the potentially catastrophic impact of all the Government's targeted cutbacks.

I bumped into DailyKeith at the end and we managed to slope off for a quick drink and catch-up, which is always very enjoyable. Laughs were had, despite the seriousness of the occasion.

Next weekend, I will be involved in a campaign to Save our Libraries. On Saturday 5th February, three Flying Poets will be attempting to visit and perform in every Library in Gloucestershire, to raise awareness of what impact the Cuts will have. I will be driving one of the local poets, Marcus Moore, from Cirencester to Tewkesbury, Cheltenham and Stonehouse, ending up at Stroud Library for a massed gathering.

It is being organised by Friends of Gloucestershire Libraries, a county-wide campaign to save our libraries from  43% cuts! There is an online petition HERE.

Can you help and get involved?