Protests over council cuts
The latest on protests against cuts to libraries, respite care centres and other services in Newcastle - and council budget plans around the North East.
The latest on protests against cuts to libraries, respite care centres and other services in Newcastle - and council budget plans around the North East.
The Newcastle born writer Lee Hall has called for direct action to protect the regions libraries.
He was speaking at a meeting being held on Tyneside tonight to protest over proposed council cuts which could see many libraries closed.
"No other council is suggesting such a pre-emotive and comprehensive cut to libraries because it doesn't add up....
If we don't get smarter, and more aggressive, we will lose our libraries. They do not have to make these cuts."
"I would personally like to thank the local community for their amazing donations of food, toiletries and clothing. "
Owners John and Irene Hays say there is ''light at the end of the tunnel'', after the pandemic forced them to close 650 UK stores.
There has been resistance to calls to dismantle memorials to the explorer.