WE’LL help save our centre.

That’s the message from residents of Blandford and its surrounding villages as the fight to save the town’s leisure centre gathers pace.

A survey of centre users during January and February confirmed residents would be happy to pay slightly more council tax to keep the facility open.

Almost three-quarters of respondents – 73 per cent – believed it would be reasonable for their town or parish council to increase their tax in 2010 to contribute to the centre’s running costs. The threat of closure has hung over the Milldown centre since North Dorset District Council (NDDC) announced it would withdraw funding in March next year.

Cllr Steve Hitchings, chairman of Blandford Leisure Centre Action Group, said: “Users have been absolutely clear in their support and many are prepared to put their money down to prove it.

“This survey has confirmed what we always thought – Blandford Leisure Centre not only offers real value for money but also provides an invaluable service to the wider community.”

The survey, carried out by the action group, revealed more than half the users came from villages outside Blandford Forum, indicating that the centre is a vital hub for the surrounding communities.

While 93 per cent thought the centre offered good value for money, 84 per cent also said they would be prepared to pay reasonably increased admission fees to keep it open.

NDDC’s withdrawal of funding for the centre has created a £250,000 hole, which the action group is asking town and parish councils in the DT11 postal area to plug.

Blandford Town Council has backed the centre to the tune of £50,000 a year for three years, but its support is dependent on similar commitment from the other parties.