A CHILDREN'S centre that keeps youngsters out of crime is fighting for survival after getting the "horrifying" news its council grant will be slashed by £20,000.

Fernheath Play Centre relies on £70,000 a year from Bournemouth Council to meet running costs of just over £100,000.

The council said budget pressures have forced it to cut the money from next April leaving the centre in a scramble to find funding.

Fernheath is run by a parents' committee and takes in children from the town's biggest estate, West Howe, which is also one of its most deprived.

Kinson South Cllr Beryl Baxter said: "It won't be able to cope without the money. Without the centre a lot of these children would be referred to social services."

Fernheath chairman Paddy Williamson said she was horrified at the news.

She said: "We're very grateful for the support we've had from the council. But we could not continue as we are without this money.

"The centre helps with reducing crime and keeping children occupied."

The centre has a climbing area, two buildings, and a sensory room. Most children come from within a mile radius, and some have special needs.

Mrs Williamson asked for help at the last full council meeting but received what she called a "disappointing" response.

The cabinet member for education Malcolm Davies told her: "The wish is for Fernheath to continue to provide popular facilities.

"My understanding is the centre is reviewing its staff costs to meet budget projections. Council staff are also committed to helping the centre fundraise."

Fernheath was opened in 1976 but has greatly increased in size since 2003 thanks to grant funding from the council, the lottery, and Children in Need.

Mrs Williamson said the centre's finances were also affected by rising staff costs to meet Ofsted requirements.

It employs two full time and four part time staff, and takes on an extra four full time staff over each summer.