COUNCIL chiefs have defended their decision to axe a meals on wheels service to make a saving of around £25,000 a year.

Members of Hyndburn's Housing Committee voted to stop the service from September .

The 240 elderly people living in the borough who have meals delivered to their homes once or twice a week are being advised to apply to Lancashire County Council for the service.

Cliff Westell, housing chairman, said: "This decision brings the council into line with other district councils in Lancashire. The responsibility for the provision of meals on wheels rests with the County Council."

Hyndburn Council does not legally have to provide meals on wheels and officers believe that the borough loses out compared to the rest of the county.

Hyndburn and Ribble Valley have the lowest number of pensioners who receive meals on wheels in Lancashire and both run their own discretionary service.

Coun Westell added: "A smooth transition will be made by close liaison between district and County Council officers.

"The expertise built up by the County Council in assessing people's needs for this service will mean that they are in a better position to ensure that service is targeted more effectively.

"While a small number of people will fall outside the criteria, those most in need will benefit from increased provision."

Edgar Bignell, head of Hyndburn's community services department, said: "My staff will help residents who need advice, as will Age Concern.

"Meals can be purchased through a private sector supplier and the County Council will assess people and decide whether a subsidised meal should be provided."

Couty Councillor Doreen Pollitt blamed the Government for cutting the service.

She said: "This is yet another instance where government underfunding is affecting the most vulnerable in our community.

"Hyndburn Council have done a wonderful job over many years in supplying this much-needed service."

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