CAMPAIGNERS battling to save a Winchester arts centre have been strengthened by cross-party support from city councillors.

Hampshire County Council proposes to transfer the Tower Arts Centre to a local school, killing off its much-loved evening programme of music and comedy.

The threat to the centre sparked a huge public campaign.

Leading campaigner Alistair Marsden handed in a petition to the full meeting of Winchester City Council last night (October 31).

In a little over a week the centre supporters have gathered 1,006 signatures.

Mr Marsden said: "There is overwhelming support for the Tower. It's clear they want the Tower to stay as it is. I can't see why the county council wants to change something that is such a success."

County council leader Ken Thornber has publicly said no change is not an option. He is looking to make savings in the arts budget to pay for the rising cost of adult social care.

Mr Marsden's petition attracted wide support from city councillors.

Cllr Georgina Busher, Independent, said: "It would be a tragedy if the centre were to disappear."

Council leader George Beckett, Conservative, said he supported the centre, but warned: "I am not optimistic but we shall leave no stone unturned."

Cllr Therese Evans, Liberal Democrat, said when the city council gave £1 million to the Discovery Centre it had made it clear it did not want to see the Tower Arts Centre threatened as a result.

There is a public meeting at 7pm at Winchester Guildhall tonight (November 1) to discuss the issue.