BARMY - that is how plans to close Sure Start centres in Winchester and force parents to travel 17 miles away have been described as public consultations on the proposals got under way.

Parents gathered at the Middle Brook Centre in Winchester yesterday for the first of many consultation events across the county.

More than 40 centres across the county are at risk of closure by Hampshire County Council which will replace with a district hubs.

The plans have come under fire from parents and activists who are concerned that the many parents will no longer use the service anymore as they will have to travel more than two hours to get to their nearest centre.

The proposals will see 54 centres replaced by 11 district hubs next year, which could save the council £8.5million.

The cuts will mean 11 centres in and around Winchester will be replaced by one district hub in Wickham, a two-hour journey by bus for some parents.

The consultation comes as campaigners have stepped up their fight to battle the plans, and have spoke of their fury that the council are footing nearly a third of the bill for a £33,000 party to celebrate the Queen’s birthday at the grounds of Winchester Cathedral.

Former Labour city councillor Patrick Davies branded the idea that Winchester parents could have to travel 17 miles to Wickham as “barmy”.

Mr Davies said: “I just think it is a tragic loss of a marvellous idea which was the Sure Start scheme which benefited children and parents from the earliest days.”

Lead campaigner Catherine Ovenden from Totton, who also attended the consultation, was concerned at the lack of information available to parents.

She claimed she had to ask staff to put consultation papers on the table, so they were visible.

There will be more consultations across the county, with people in Eastleigh having a chance to have their say on Thursday, March 17 at the Wells Centre from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

The consultation is available by visiting hants.gov.uk.

Protesters will also hold a demonstration against the plans on Tuesday, March 22 at Lyndhurst Community Centre from 9.30am.